In 2002 the CPSC released, "Age Determination Guidelines: Relating Children's Ages to Toy Characteristics and Play Behavior".   This document provides recommended guidelines for safety testing and also provides a description of the types and characteristics of toys recommended for children of specific ages.   Excerpts from this document include:  "At birth, an infant’s focus is best at a distance of about 8 inches from the face." " Their movements become more coordinated and organized, and at 3 months of age they begin reaching towards and grasping objects. When infants can grasp toys, they learn to manipulate them both manually and orally." "Suitable mirrors and manipulative toys for these infants fit completely within their visual field,  have rounded edges, and are lightweight but sturdy if meant to be grasped."  "At 4-7 months, They are learning to reach, grasp, push, pull, squeeze, pat,  poke, and shake. Mouthing and teething are also very characteristic of this age group, although the time spent mouthing varies among children."  "Since these children prefer to mouth toys, any toy they grasp will most likely  proceed towards their faces. Toys with flaps, spinners, and rattling objects for exploration are of  interest to these children."" Characteristics of toys for ages 0-12 months include: Fits in visual field; Small enough for infant to grasp; if intended to be handled, Rounded corners/edges; Easy-to-grasp shape; if intended to be handled, Lightweight; Washable; Reaching; Grasping; Mouthing; Can transfer objects from hand to hand; Bright, vibrant colors; High contrast patterns; objects that move slowly; Multi-textured; Gentle, soothing sounds, Not too loud, sudden, or extreme.