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Be selective when choosing toys

By Dee Mayers

Real Estate Agent

December 21, 2010 12:33 PM

Is it reasonable to think that a happy childhood is possible without the newest or latest toys? The Daily Telegraph of London states "Toys now promote the vision of a violent, lawless, society." This statement is not true of every toy of course, but some toys today are aggressive in appearance, loud and available in great variety, so choose wisely.

A favorite stuff toy to a child can become inseparable. Look closely and you may see it in the family album. Appropriately then, If play can be called a child's work then toys can be said to be a child's tools, so be selective when choosing toys. They provide opportunities for children to grow, to communicate and share with their playmates. Play time also stimulates the imagination, so select toys that are stimulating and interesting.

toys on a shelf

A good toy is...

Suitable and safe for the child's age, abilities, and physical capabilities
Well constructed and durable
Attractive and interesting enough to engage the child's attention
Stimulating to the child's creativity and imagination
Affordable
Nontoxic

So, is it reasonable to think that a happy childhood is possible without the newest or latest toys? Indeed it is!

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Faina Reinhardt

HotRentalsNY.com - Manhattan, NY

My son is getting a telescope. I try to give educational toys that can be used over and over. All the silly stuff loses it's luster quickly.

Dec 21, 2010 12:34 PM

Tammy Lankford,

Lane Realty Eatonton, GA Lake Sinclair, Milledgeville, 706-485-9668 - Eatonton, GA

Broker GA Lake Sinclair/Eatonton/Milledgeville

I give the children in my family books for Christmas and birthdays. Occassionally something else, but I love to read and I hope to instill a love books and reading in the children in my family.

Dec 21, 2010 12:37 PM

Vickie McCartney

Maverick Realty - Owensboro, KY

Broker, Real Estate Agent Owensboro KY

Hi Dee~ It seems the only toys I am buying lately are for a two year old grandson. The only things he talks about or asks for is tractors! That's easy and simple enough!

Dec 21, 2010 12:40 PM

Wanda Kubat-Nerdin - Wanda Can!

Red Rock Real Estate (435) 632-9374 - St. George, UT

St. George Utah Area Residential Sales Agent

Toys sure have changed through the years and finding 'safe' toys for toddlers is challenging since everything they touch goes right in the mouth! Great list Dee and happy shopping!

Dec 21, 2010 12:53 PM

Barb & Sal Dragotta

Macomb, MI

Macomb County Michigan

Dee...how timely is your post; today on the cable news the story is about parents [& others buying for kids]
are Returning to the toys of "old"--Lincoln Logs, slinky, board games, and other non-techie toys. How great is that. There is really no age limit on a wonderful stuffed dog, cat, horse, rabbit is there. Love this post of yours.
Have a wonderful CXhristmas
Barb

Dec 21, 2010 01:16 PM

Dee Mayers

Covina, CA

San Gabriel Valley, CA

Faina,
A very good choice. He will not only be fascinated by what he sees but he will also learn that the universe is full of surprises, a great expanse of galaxies, cosmos, planets, etc., to explore and I hope he will inquire about the Creator of it all. Look out, here comes the questions!

Tammy,
That's a great idea to give a book as a gift. It is so important that children learn to read. It's been said that "the more a child understands the contents of books, the more he will be simulated to look for them when he wants to satisfy his curiosity."

Vickie,
Yes it is simple, easy and age appropriate. Maybe he will be willing to donate it to a needy person when he is through with it.

Hi Wanda,
Thank you, As long as the toy cannot be swallowed—I've seen parents let the dog lick their child's face, which I do not recommend, so a toy in the mouth is not so bad. They will eat dirt if you let them but wouldn't eat veggies, go figure =D

Barb,
Thank you, I didn't see the cable news would of love too. You can't go wrong with a stuff toy even grown ups like them.

Dec 21, 2010 02:27 PM

Juli Vosmik

Dominion Fine Properties - Scottsdale, AZ

Scottsdale/Cave Creek, AZ real estate 480-710-0739

Great post, Dee. I have always gotten the grandchildren books and crafts. First, it keeps them busy during winter break and it keeps their mind going.

Dec 21, 2010 04:05 PM

Joan Cox

House to Home, Inc. - Denver Real Estate - 720-231-6373 - Denver, CO

Denver Real Estate - Selling One Home at a Time

Dee, it is funny, years ago buying for my daughter, we never had to think about China, lead in our toys, etc. They were just supposed to be fun! Things have sure changed!

Dec 22, 2010 01:13 AM

Hi Juli,
I meant to ask you if you are using Firefox, you comments are now in living color, I like, I like.

A selection of books and crafts sure does stimulate the mind and in the interim, provides loads of fun and create memories. Good choice!

Joan,
Yes things and times have changed. Dangerous levels of lead have been detected in some toys and jewelry. That's why it is imperative that parents, grandparents family members, etc., should put some thought into finding the toy that is not only practical by safe.

Dec 22, 2010 08:47 AM

Be selective when choosing toys

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