What's black and white and red all over?

A zebra falling downstairs? A newspaper smeared in ketchup? The newspaper (black and white and read all over)?

Wrong on all counts! In the past 15 years or so, infant toys have increasingly appeared in black and white and red. What happened to yesterday's pastels?

Are black-and-white-and red toys really better for babies?

After nearly two decades, the jury is still out. What we do know is this: high-contrast colors are ideal for infant playthings. Newborns can certainly see immediately after birth, but their vision is not fully developed until several months later. (For example, a newborn may see objects less than a foot from his face. Farther items may be somewhat blurry. In time, his focus improves, and he can discern additional sights and shapes.)

During the first four to six months of life, babies tend to respond more rapidly to items in extremely contrasting colors. Bright objects (and shiny ones) can hold their attention best. Babies become more stimulated by items that interest them. They demonstrate their fascination by wriggling, wiggling, and waving their arms and legs. Favorite items seem to be faces (especially baby faces), mirrors, and bold stripes and shapes.

SAFETY MATTERS

Whether you purchase black-and-white or technicolor toys for your infant, the most important thing to spot is safety. Avoid playthings labeled "for age three and older," because these may contain small parts that can be choking hazards for babies.

Non-toxic materials are essential as well.

Learn more about this author, Linda Ann Nickerson.
Click here to send author comments or questions.

---

Add your voice

Know something about Explaining the black and white toy craze for infant stimulation?
We want to hear your view. Write now!