How much thought do you put into choosing toys for the children in your life?

I admit I have a passion for toys… but I’m definitely picky about them. I don’t find myself attracted to just any old toy simply because it’s a toy. In fact, I’m very sure that our children would get along just fine without most of the toys available on the market today. It certainly wouldn’t stop them from playing… and just might open them up to greater creativity than they’re experimenting with today. And still, I’m hooked on toys!

Because of that I’m usually aware when the annual Toy Fair in New York is taking place and read reviews with interest. The 2010 Toy Fair took place a couple of weeks ago, if you’d like to take a peek at some of the toys unveiled this year, just go head on over to the website and watch the videos.

There are always the toys that make me shake my head in amazement… and those that make me shake my head in disgust. And all of that caused me to wonder about you… and where you stand on the toy purchases you make.

Are you persuaded by your child to get them what they are attracted to regardless of it’s quality, play-ability, or ability to inspire, teach or create curiosity… or do you find yourself giving thought to the toys your kids are asking for and/or receiving?

If you haven’t given it much thought you might want to consider what would contribute to the richness of the environment you want to provide for your children.

Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Provide an assortment of toys made from different materials, i.e. wood, fabric, good quality plastics, metals, even paper, etc.

• Watch that toys are age appropriate but don’t just rely on the age-guide on the box… know what your child is capable of manipulating and understanding and you’ll be okay even selecting something labeled for an older… or younger child.

• Look for toys that require your child’s involvement. Yes, there is something intriguing about all those battery operated toys, but really, a toy that ‘plays itself’ doesn’t offer anywhere near the richness of a toy that invites your child to use their imagination.

• And that’s another thing… don’t be so quick to pack up or give away those ‘infant’ or ‘toddler’ toys… left to their own devices it’s amazing how an older child will repurpose a toy. I once watched a group of five-year-olds turn a toddler’s stacking blocks and some small, animal-shaped bean bags into a very awesome (and complicated) game.

• Consider exploring whether or not your community has a toy-lending library and try before you buy.

• Engage in play with your child and their toys. Sometimes parents limit their game-playing with their children to board games… but it’s amazing what you’ll discover about your child’s thinking if you engage them in a conversation while playing with any of there toys.

• Be open to your child teaching YOU something new by letting them use a toy their own way. In other words… don’t get hung up on the ‘rules’ or ‘directions’ given on the toy (unless there is a safety issue, naturally)

In fact… if you start looking at toys with the eyes of your inner-child, you may find yourself more interested in playing with toys with your child… and picking out toys that are a hit in your house. ;-)

Teach * Play * Inspire — and Have Fun!