What is an important consideration when selecting toys for a hospital playroom catering to infants?

When selecting toys for a hospital playroom catering to infants, the most crucial consideration is that toys must be easily cleanable and safe. Infants are particularly vulnerable to infections, and hospitals have strict hygiene protocols to prevent the spread of germs. Toys that can be easily sanitized ensure that they remain safe for multiple infants to use. Furthermore, safety is paramount, as infants are prone to putting objects in their mouths. Therefore, toys should be free from small parts that could pose a choking hazard and should be made from non-toxic materials.

The other options, while they address aspects of play and development, do not prioritize the immediate health and safety needs of infants in a hospital environment. Providing auditory stimulation is beneficial, but not every toy must offer that feature, particularly if it compromises cleanliness. Likewise, while larger toys might seem safer in some contexts, size alone does not ensure that the toys are appropriate for play in a hospital setting. Additionally, toys with many small parts would increase the risk of choking, making them unsuitable for infants, who are still developing coordination and may not have the ability to play safely with such items.