An infant or nursery area is typically for children ages birth through 18 months. This area of a learning center includes free play and structured activities that encourage social interaction, cooperation, coordination and communication. Toys are larger to prevent choking and sturdier to assist in pulling up as well as safe and secure away from environmental hazards.
Toddler areas of a learning center accommodate children from 18 to around 30 months. This area of the learning center includes activities that encourage small and large motor movements, cause and effect and language development. Everyday toys, such as tubs and building blocks, are popular items for this age group.
The preschool area is typically for children ages 3 to 4 years old. This area of a learning center includes pretend play, such as kitchen sets, toolboxes, riding toys and house sets. Children this age enjoy singing along with music, counting objects and matching shapes. Preschoolers recognize numbers, letters and colors; therefore, toys that stimulate recognition are common in a preschool learning center.
The kindergarten area contains toys and activities for children ages 5 to 6 years of age. This area of a learning center includes dress-up play, jumping games such as hopscotch or rope and art materials, such as safety scissors, construction paper, markers and crayons. Children in this stage of development begin reading simple words and start to use one hand over the other for writing, coloring and drawing.