For little kids, toddlers, preschoolers or those who are still in day care centers, play should not be hard work but fun and enjoyable.
It is during play that they are able to improve their emotional and social skills since they are not only dealing with themselves during play but also with their playmates who have different personalities.
It is also during play when they develop the sense of right and wrong, give and take, sense of responsibility and comradeship but especially sportsmanship.
Toys are very essential for a child's play.
They are the ones that encourage a child to engage in activities.
And perhaps, one of the most versatile and popular toy for a kid is a ball, which he can play by himself or with others.
Since playing ball is more fun when played with friends, this is where children improve their social skills.
Moreover, balls can offer a lot of movements for kids which help them exercise their muscles.
Balls vary in sizes and are made to be age- appropriate.
Balls that are too small would probably be tossed by children into their mouths and would end up choking them.
Balls that are too big are too uneasy to play with.
Bear in mind, though, to be keen when choosing a ball from the market that it should be made from a solid and durable material and should remain in shape all the time to avoid any form of accident since kids will probably love to sit, kick or bounce on it.
Most balls that are available are made of plastic or rubber, so be sure that they are toxic-free and don't contain any form of lead.
As much as possible, they should be padded so as not to hurt the kids whenever they are playing with it.
Balls vary in colour but it is best to choose different shades so that children can pick out the ones they want.