Play is the 'business' of childhood and toys are the tools they use. All kids (and many grown-ups!) love toys and the shops are full of them. So how does one choose?
Keep in mind that where toys are concerned, 'Less is More'
- "The more the merrier" is not necessarily true here. Kids with a cupboard full of toys could still say they are bored. A mass of toys surrounding the child soon loses its novelty and hence its play value.
- Children with fewer toys are more likely to see play possibilities in everyday things around and use their imagination and creativity.
- Make sure the toy is safe - look out for sharp edges, removable parts that could get wedged in the ear, throat or nose, toxic paint, or parts that could break and which could be dangerous or disappointing
- Choose toys that are appropriate for your child's age. Toys often have age-guidelines, but there are no absolutes.
- Buy toys that are unstructured, i.e., can be used in a variety of ways. For instance, building blocks that could be made into a house, a train or a zoo, stimulate the imagination much more than a battery operated toy.
- Buy toys that are durable and sturdy so your child can enjoy playing with them without constantly being afraid that they will break.
- If your child sets her heart on a toy - it's okay to make her wait for it. The toy will be valued more when she does get it.
- Don't buy a toy just because it's labeled 'educational'. If your child does not have fun with it, then it may not be educational at all, because it's never taken out of the toy box!
- Think about space limitations in your child's play and storage areas. Make sure the toy is an appropriate size for your home, especially if you live in a flat.
- Try to buy toys that your child will love and use again and again. The best toys are not necessarily the most expensive but often are the most worn-out because they are used the most!
Getting more pleasure out of toys
- Periodically, rotate your child's toys by putting some away in a cupboard or box and taking others out. Kids love to 'rediscover' their toys and the novelty is retained.
- Teach your child to care for his toys by keeping them (reasonably) clean, handling them correctly and putting them away after play. Bright, well-kept toys are much more fun to play with than broken, dirty ones.
