At holiday time parents have been known to line up for a special toy.
Some parents even camp in front of the store.
Holiday toy-buying can become a frantic experience and the fun you thought you would have turns into work.
Will your child like the toys you choose? Answering these questions will help you make smart toy choices and save you money.
Do not be influenced by toy ads.
Keep your child's interests in mind as you shop for toys.
You may even want to bring these questions with you.
1.
Is the toy really a toy? A true toy requires participation.
All to often, however, batter-powered toys require no participation at all; they are something to watch.
According to TRUCE (Teachers Resisting Unhealthy Children's Entertainment), parents should resist toys that make violence the focus of play, toys that promote "looking and acting sexy," dolls with overly thin bodies, toys and games linked to media, and "toys masquerading as books.
" 2.
Is the toy age-appropriate? Babies like to pile things up and take them down.
Nested blocks are a good example.
Toddlers like pull toys and stuffed dolls.
Nursery school children like wooden puzzles and blocks.
Grade school kids like board games.
Teenagers like electronics and sports.
When I chose holiday toys for my daughters, I included one advanced toy to stimulate their minds.
3.
Is the toy safe? Check the toy for sharp parts, rough edges, and cords that could strangle a young child.
The Noise on Toys, a Canadian website, has posted a "Toy Safety Checklist.
" Durability is one thing to consider, according to the list, and you should avoid toys made from toxic substances, such as lead paint.
Phthalates, which re used to make vinyl soft, should also be avoided.
"Unfortunately, there is nothing to hold toymakers accountable to the 'phthalate-free' label," the article notes.
4.
Does the toy foster play? The National Children's Museum describes seven types of play on its blog, Eureka! The types: attunement (connecting with others), body play and movement, object play, such as stimulating the senses, social play, imaginative play and pretend, story-telling/narrative play, and creative play.
As you browse toy stores keep in mind that sand play, water play, building and ball play are universal.
5.
Can your child use the toy independently? You may need to demonstrate the toy.
After you have done this your child should be able to use it.
In other words, your child should be engaged in "original play.
" The Playing by Heart website describes this play in ts article, "The Importance of Original Play in Human Development.
" Original play increases a child's range of motion, coordination, balance, and fine motor skills, the article explains.
Puppets are an example of a gift that stimulates this type of play.
6.
Is the toy budget-friendly? Watch for toy sales and special coupons.
Other budget-friendly suggestions from the TRUCE organization: passing on toys from older children, shopping yard/garage sales, making your own board games, and sopping locally to reduce gas costs and pollution.
Years ago, I made frog bean bags and Raggedy Ann dolls for my daughters and they loved them.
These tips can change frantic toy shopping into fabulous toy shopping.
Go to it.
Copyright 2011 by Harriet Hodgson