Wednesday, March 3, 2010

How to Build Your Classic Toy Collection For a Modern Kid

When parents have young children, one of the first things they often do is buy that child a toy that was their personal favorite when they were young. Dads buy fire trucks and dump trucks, and moms buy their little girls stuffed toys and dolls.

Sometimes, the classic toys are classics for a reason: they have stood the test of time and continue to engage children years after they were first developed.

If you want to fill your playroom with the best tried and true toys, take a look back on your childhood and think about the toys you loved best. A word of caution, though, each child is different and just because your red wagon was your favorite toy doesn't mean your child will feel the same.

However, shopping for classic toys is one of the great pleasures of being a parent.

Here is a list of some of the classic toys you may remember from your childhood.

---Fire trucks. Today's fire trucks are often full of electronic noises and functions that the older trucks didn't have. Pick the best truck that matches the age of your child. A baby, for example, will like a plastic, sturdy truck that doesn't have small parts or sharp edges. An older child will appreciate one that has more bells and whistles.

---Board games. Setting up a collection of classic board games is almost a parental requirement. Board games, such as Shoots and Ladders and Candy Land are perfect for small children who cannot yet read. Playing games gives them an understanding of winning and losing and of competitive, fun play. Be certain to look for age requirements on board games and to follow them as they are pretty accurate pertaining to cognitive abilities.

---Blocks. Nothing is more classic than a good set of blocks. Not only are they learning tools, because they have letters and pictures on them, but they also help babies develop fine motor skills by stacking them.

---A wagon. Many adults have fond memories of piling their favorite toys in their little red wagon and pulling it all over the yard. Or they remember climbing in while Mom or Dad pulled them about. There's something about a wagon that gives little kids a sense of ownership and responsibility.

Your classic toys list may differ or not include some we've mentioned. But making out a list is a good way to come up with gift ideas for your little ones.

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