Some children may enjoy playing with playtrays from around 15 months, providing the pieces have a large enough knob to grip hold of and they all fit smoothly into the tray. However, looking at very basic puzzles and playtrays together will be more useful at this stage than unsupervised play and can be an ideal means of establishing a bond, one-to-one, with a child.
Remember, also, that eventhe most basic puzzles and playtrays usually have an 18-months plus 'recommended age' guide. If a child can't manage the manipulation required to slot the piece into the tray you should try to help without taking over and limit the amount of time spent on this to avoid frustration. Look for sturdy, well-made puzzles that will withstand plenty of determined handling.
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