For children, playing is their number one job.  It is through play that our children learn about relationships, how to build friendships, the importance of negotiation as well as figuring out how things work in the world around them.  As adults, we each can easily identify the tools of our trades, whether it is a computer or soldering iron, a stethoscope or soup spoon.  For children, the tools of their trade are the toys with which they shape and enhance their play experiences.

 

As the holidays approach, and shopping deadlines begin to loom, parents are often caught in the bind of making hurried decisions.  This panic is also heightened by the traditional holiday hype of commercial children's television, selling often developmentally inappropriate toys to eager, excited viewers.

 

The primary challenge for parents in buying toys is selecting products which are safe and durable as well as exciting for their children.  The extent to which parents can guide their children's gift requests, without the added pressure caused by advertising, will make this process less stressful and more enjoyable.  Some parents report finding relief from commercial television by limiting the overall number of television hours allowed, relying on public television as much as possible and replacing "TV" time with an assortment of pre-selected children's videos.  Other parents have shared that watching television with their children, and talking with them about the commercials they are viewing can help "de-mystify" the way in which a particular toy is being presented by the media.  A combination of these approaches may help relieve parents of added pressure and potential disappointment among their children.

 

In making toy selections, key points for parents to consider include the following:

     Versatility

        Does the toy allow for a variety of types of imaginative play, throughout the ages and stages of their development?

 

           Will the toy maintain your child's interest for longer than just a few minutes?

   Durability

         Will the toy withstand many months of use?

 

            Do you think the toy is sturdy enough to be able to be passed down to a younger child?

 

    Age Appropriateness

        Does the toy provide a level of challenge for your child which will allow him/her a sense of mastery and accomplishment?

          Is your child physically able to use the toy successfully?

    Safety

        Is the toy constructed from materials which may break easily, exposing jagged edges?

 

          Does the toy have many small pieces?