|
|
|
|
Volume 2, Issue 2
Winter 2007-2008
Downloadable PDF Version
Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader
Click here for a FREE subscription to Toy Times!
In This Issue:
|
|
Thoughts from
the Publisher
Toys have been in the news repeatedly over the last three months. And when toys are in the news...it's usually not good news! What started out as an isolated recall of a small line of toys has mushroomed into a monumental shift in both how toys are manufactured and how toys are purchased.
So how does a parent or grandparent know which toys are safe to purchase for the children in their lives?
1. Be vigilant. This unfortunate series of events has forced everyone to re-evaluate their safety standards - but that's a good thing! Manufacturers need to take all the necessary steps to ensure that safety is tantamount to the manufacturing process. Retailers need to be discriminating about the toys that they offer to consumers. And consumers need to be educated about the safety standards being taken by each respective manufacturer. Additionally, consumers also need to do their part to make sure that the toys they're purchasing are age-appropriate for their children.
2. Seek out quality first. Thomas Jefferson was quoted as saying, "Never buy anything you do not want, because it is cheap." This could probably be interpreted in different ways, but what it says to me is that a bargain is rarely a bargain. Question your motives for purchasing a particular toy. Am I purchasing it because it has a small price tag? Or am I purchasing it because it possesses the qualities for a great toy? Instead of seeking out cheap, mass-produced, licensed toys - seek out the alternative. Seek out quality toys from trusted retailers and manufacturers who put safety at the forefront instead of an afterthought.
So what has Fat Brain Toys done as a result of these recent events? From a product perspective, not much. Quality has always been one of the key ingredients of a Fat Brain Toy - and it goes without saying that quality and safety go hand-in-hand. We're happy to report that in five years of business, not a single toy that we've sold has ever been recalled.
But from an informational stand-point, we've been very busy! Soon after the recalls began, we created a "Toy Safety Information Center" so that our customers had a single source where they could find the most recent information about toy safety. We also requested that all the toy companies with which we work submit detailed information about the steps they are taking to ensure safety in their products. We also began compiling the country of origin for every single toy that we sell. All of this information can be found at www.FatBrainToys.com and continues to be updated on a weekly basis.
We've taken these steps because we want you to be informed. And whether you buy them from us or not, please put quality first when you're purchasing toys for the loved ones in your life. For additional information about toy safety, please visit http://www.fatbraintoys.com.
Mark Carson
Co-Founder, Fat Brain Toys
|
Legacy Toys: Investing in Playthings with Staying Power
Something happens when someone older than me starts to tell me a story. Maybe because the instance is rare, whatever the reason - I become curious...I lean in.
Recently, I was talking to a grandmother. When I brought up the subject of toys, her words took wings.
She told me of days when, "...kids used their imagination a lot more. We pretended . . . we made mud pies, we played with a cash register and play money and used my mother's canned goods to shop. We loaded up our wagons with stuff and called it our shopping cart. I got a puppet once, and we gave puppet shows constantly. We didn't have as many toys as today. We had a doll, a wagon, a bicycle, an Erector set, a tea set maybe, but you didn't have a lot. My dad would sit and play marbles with us. You took better care of your toys because you didn't have so many. Toys were better quality because they had to last a long time. We had terrific fun."
Fast forward to the year 2007. Toys, Toys, Toys. Everywhere! Crowding the aisles of stores, overflowing the toy box, a predictable presence in every child's drive-through meal. We've gained a lot in convenient access to toys, in quick gratification with their use, in high-tech entertainment, but without a conscious effort we could lose something more special. More rare is the real, pure joy that is found in a creativity-inspiring toy.
The good news is that purely fun and meaningful toys are still accessible. It is possible to find toys that endure the progression of time and wear the medal of "favorite toys" for your children AND your grandchildren. Overloading with too much is not necessary. Thinking through your toy purchase with the points below in mind, children will be rewarded with quality playtime no matter what their age!
Try thinking of toys in terms of:
Versatility - Can the toy be used in combination with other toys or objects to inspire creative play? (i.e. blocks & action figures, dolls & a tea set, balls caught with an insect net or bounced on a drum, animal figures & cardboard boxes, spy toys & jump ropes)
Independence - Does the toy empower a child so that the child decides what to do?
Social Interaction - Does the toy allow people to have fun together? Can more than one child enjoy the toy at a time?
Imagination - Does the toy allow for imagination away from themes shown on TV or in the movies? Can the toy be played with in different ways or beyond the intended purpose?
Physical Movement - Does the toy require the child to move?
Strategy & Challenge - Does the toy appeal to the innate desire we have for thinking just a little bit "out of the box" and beyond our natural level? - e.g., games & construction kits.
Self-Expression - Does the toy allow the opportunity to showcase the child's unique talents or interests?
Reality & Fantasy Balance - Does the toy promote a balance of reality and fantasy? Children can develop skills and imagination simultaneously by creation of an art project on a pirate theme, investigating with spy toys, or acting out real life scenarios with puppets.
Relaxation - Does the toy encourage a kid to relax? Soft cuddly toys, a non-competitive, simple game, or texturally interesting plaything.
Call me simple, but when I'm 80 here are my aspirations: I want to be playing alongside my grandkids, leaned up against the sofa with a big pile of wooden blocks, building spaceships with Geomags and weird creatures with Zolo, hurling superballs into Dado Cube castles with our catapult, rearranging furniture and moving our Calico Critters around in the three story wooden dollhouse, taking in a rowdy run of Blokus, pounding colorful balls with a wooden mallet, watching silliness with the Bilibo, and after we're done, I want to watch my grandkids curl up with my son's favorite UglyDoll "Uglyworm" and my daughter's beloved "Too-Dee" for a nap.
Among the parts of my legacy, I want the addition... "and when kids were at their house they played."
Along with all your wisdom and valiant efforts at a good example, leave a legacy of play for your family. The enjoyment of one of life's simplest pleasures...the pure, authentic appreciation of a gallant good time with an unforgettable toy.
Rousing Intellectual & Emotional Growth in "Special Needs" Children and the Special Child in Your Life
One of the core beliefs at Fat Brain Toys is that toys, when used in interactive, positive relationships, are among the very best tools for helping all children grow intellectually and emotionally.
After reviewing the latest literature and incorporating the opinions of true experts, here are some of our thoughts, opinions and findings.
The Ultimate Goal - A Focus on the Individual
Therapists and parents agree, after the newness of diagnosis wears off, the goal is to further develop the individual - and to not concentrate on the label. While each condition has distinguishing characteristics, at a 1,000 foot view, each and every one indicates emotional challenges and logical thinking challenges to some degree. The goal is to meet the child where he/she is and to light the path to increased capabilities.
Remember, Most Learning Is Two Steps Forward, One Step Back
That's okay. You are still moving forward. Sometimes children operate at the top of their ability level, sometimes at the bottom, the majority of the time somewhere in the middle. This range is especially significant in children with complex tendencies or patterns in emotional state and thinking processes. Help your child reach the next rung of the developmental ladder "of the moment". Don't worry about what he/she could do yesterday.
Playtime with a Partner Can Be Powerful
Interaction in playing together offers visible benefits. "One of the main things is to not allow the children to play off in their own little world. Engaging children with purposeful toys in the context of play with a partner provides just the right environment for learning," suggests Erin Kipple, therapist and research coordinator at the University of Autism research center. Although the spectrum of known developmental challenges in children is broad, a number of studies in recent years have shown that interactive experiences actually change the physical structure of the brain. "We now have evidence from neuro-imaging studies (e.g., fMRI, PET, and SPECT scans) that new neuro-pathways are created and connections among neurons are enhanced when the brain is stimulated," explains Dr. Ron Savage, Executive Vice President of the North American Brain Injury Society and expert on neuro-developmental disabilities.
Take an Active Role in Your Child's Playtime
Tip #1: Be a bridge to new ideas. Your child is stacking blocks. "What if I put these blocks like this? What does that look like?" If your child doesn't pick up on the fact that you were making a window, you might say, "Hey that looks like a window! This could be a house." Lead the child to the next idea. "Who will live in this house?" While making a zoo with toy animals and blocks, you might make one of the animals escape and say, "Oh no! What will you do?" Keep the scenario moving as your child responds.
Tip #2: "Become" the toy. Your daughter is cuddling her doll. You may feel a bit odd at first, but become the doll saying something like, "Oh, thank you for the nice hug. I'm getting hungry now." Playing cars? Set up a rough terrain. Become the car. "Bump, bump, bump!" "Ouch! This is too rough! Hmmm...where can I find a smooth place to drive?" This approach makes interaction easy for your child and playtime with you more fun and creative.
Tip #3: Focus on concepts of quantity or quality: Size, Length, Distance, Color, Strength, Speed, etc. When racing toy cars ask, "Which car is fastest? Which car is slowest?" Decide together if the stuffed dog should jump a long way or a short way. When playing with action figures ask, "Which one is the strongest? Could he push this little ball?" Say, "I wonder which is longest, the red block or the blue one?"
Tip #4: Redirect When The Going Gets Tough. If your child does not respond, ask in a curious tone, "How come you won't answer?" Ask gently and repeatedly if necessary to help the child focus. If your child becomes discontented, don't despair. The potential for developmental growth and building relationships through play experiences with loved ones is exponential. Kim Ward, parent of children with Bipolar/Aspergers with ADD and autism; and an active advocate for special needs children clarifies, "In the most difficult times and the most challenging situations, hope comes from the look of satisfaction in your child's eyes as she understands A comes before B and next comes C. Growth and learning through parent interaction and play is an education almost as if by accident. To have the opportunity to help open your child's world through something as easy as playing with them is a joy that knows no words."
In summary, playtime goes beyond fun. "All in all," says Ron Savage, "play is the best stimulation for children, especially when children are playing with toys, games, and people devoted to helping them learn." It's proven...loving relationships, meaningful toys, and time engaging in play together are best!
Introducing the Fat Brain Toys Special Needs Panel of Advisors
Introducing Our Special Needs Panel of Advisors
Customers frequently come to us seeking insights to which toys best meet the needs of children with "autism," "Asperger's disorder," "pervasive developmental disorder (PDD)," "auditory processing disorder (APD)," "mental retardation," "Down syndrome," and other developmental challenges. As a whole, these conditions and characteristics are defined as "Special Needs."
This urgent concern - coming from parents, grandparents, caregivers, and educators - inspired Fat Brain Toys to seek out answers.
In search of the "best" answers, we brought together highly knowledgeable, experienced individuals - with obvious passion for helping special kids. These individuals have generously volunteered to provide insights based upon their practical experiences and research-based work with special needs children. As a means of saying "thank you," Fat Brain Toys has contributed a $500 donation on their behalf to the charity of their choice. These experts will continue to advise us on the best toys and their optimal use with "differently-abled" kids. Hats off to these volunteers for their sincere commitment to very special kids.
|
Erin Kipple
Erin is the research coordinator at the University of Washington Autism Center in Seattle. She has extensive experience as an ABA therapist and a genuine desire to help kids. World Vision will receive $500 on behalf of Erin. World Vision is a Christian humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting children, families and communities worldwide experiencing poverty and injustice. Click here to see Erin's recommended toys...
|
|
Kim Ward
Kim is President of the Autism Society of America Michigan Chapter and the Bay City School District Parent Advocate for Special Education. Kim and her husband John are parents of four children - among them, one child with Bipolar/Aspergers with ADD, and one child who is autistic. The Saginaw Bay Autism Society will receive $500 on behalf of Kim. Click here to see Kim's recommended toys...
|
|
Dr. Ronald Savage
Dr. Savage has worked with children, adolescents and young adults with traumatic brain injuries and neurological disorders for over 35 years. Presently, Dr. Savage is Executive Vice President for the North American Brain Injury Society (NABIS). Dr. Savage is also Program Consultant to The George Washington University Graduate Program in Traumatic Brain Injury and Editor of the Brain Injury Professional. The Hattie Larlham Foundation will receive $500 on behalf of Dr. Savage. Hattie Larlham is a not-for-profit organization providing care to children and adults with cerebral palsy and profound/severe mental and motor retardation including: prenatal disorders, birth related injury, brain malformation, traumatic brain injury, prematurity, severe infection, and medical complications. Click here to see Dr. Savage's recommended toys...
|
There's One in Every Family...
We all have "them" - the people in our families for which we find it most difficult to buy Christmas gifts. In my case, it could be difficult for a number of reasons: I find it easy to make major life decisions, but can't choose between the red or the burgundy washcloths for my bathroom. How will I, then, choose the PERFECT gift for the ones I love? Or maybe it's that I just don't get that big of a "kick" out of shopping. Of all the genes I'm "blessed/cursed" with, the shopping gene seemed to skip me and go straight to my sister. Or maybe it's that I always put off shopping until December 23rd and the rest of you have gotten to all the good stuff first. "Thanks a lot," she said with sarcasm! So this year, I'm breaking my cycle of indecisive, "mutated-gene" procrastination and making a list of what I'm buying for my relatives who present more of a challenge to me when it comes to picking the perfect gift. I'm guessing you'll see a little bit of your own family in each of these descriptions. Because, after all, there's one in every family:
THE HARD-TO-BUY-FOR (aren't they all?) MOTHER-IN-LAW - who really means well and is such a sweet person now that I know her better 20 years later, who had the idea one year that we would not shop for gifts in a store, but rather would give each other keepsakes or items that were already in our houses that would have meaning to the recipient if THEY now owned it, which I thought was a great idea (some call it re-gifting, I call it brilliant!), but just in case that happens again another year, I want to plan ahead: Victorian Dollhouse (I've always wanted one! Here's my chance!)
THE GRUMPY GRANDPA - who had it so bad as a child that he wore burlap sacks on his feet instead of snow boots and was just thankful to have feet, who absolutely never spoke to an adult the way children do these days and never would have given a pacifier to a baby, but who can't help but smile and goo-goo the tiniest bit at the end of the visit when those same ungrateful, disrespectful, snow-boot-wearing, pacifier-sucking children are handing out hugs and kisses: Erector Hummer H2 Radio Controlled (That'll keep him busy for a while.)
THE LOVING HUSBAND - who was a football stud in high school, but now occassionally at 40 feels just a little too old to play football sometimes, who sometimes wakes up with achy joints and would like one of those therapeutic, Swedish mattress pads that would take the stress off his hips when he sleeps - those aching hips are the sole reason he cannot throw a football like he did back in the day (although his wife still thinks he's a stud 24 years later): Black Max Football (Tighter spirals, longer throws . . . even I can throw this one!)
THE ADORABLE NIECES - who are so worth spoiling because I have no daughters, who call me a version of my name that has now stuck with the rest of my family, who make me smile even when they're sleeping (and sometimes, ESPECIALLY when they're sleeping) because I know that all too soon, they will not be in my arms anymore trying to take the gum out of my mouth and laughing when I act like I am eating their fingers, but will be precious little girls and then, intelligent, loving women: Vet Playset with 3 Figures (for pretending), Organic Cotton Lamb (for snuggling), and Dreamland (for when their aunt comes to rock them to sleep.)
THE ON-THE-GO TEENAGE SONS - of which I have three, who make me realize that we should not be paying for the full cable service because the only channel that they ever watch is ESPN, whose social lives are much too active and who can't decide where to go to college, but who still smile when I give them a toy that's way "too young" for them because deep down, they still want to be little boys who play in the dirt, have a backyard baseball game, and don't quite care what ESPN is yet: Flik Stix (because this qualifies as a sport), Aerobie Ring (because the first one I bought this summer is stuck on the roof of the Williston, North Dakota hotel where we played during a baseball tourney), and Golf Party Island (because now maybe they'll stop using my coffee cups as holes instead.)
THE SWEETEST GREAT-GRANDPARENTS - who remind me that I want to be just like them when I'm their age and who were probably much like me at my age, minus the "driving the kids around to every sporting event imaginable" schedule: The Learning Calendar (because when they see dates for the history they remember, they'll have the greatest stories to tell about the past.)
THE "LITTLE" BROTHERS - who are now awesome uncles, but who literally barely sit still long enough to eat the Christmas meal before the urge to throw a ball (or a wadded-up napkin or a dinner roll) overtakes them and some sort of game erupts: Large Oball (because they can turn any round object into the perfect competition that makes the nephews beg to play "that one game we made up" again the next time we're together.)
THE WONDERFUL SISTERS-IN-LAW - who make me believe there will be hope for my boys to find a wife, because they are living proof that "boys who never grow up" can still find perfect women to marry them: Mama's Little Book of Tricks (because every mom needs a few tricks up her sleeve) and The Encyclopedia of Immaturity (because they live with my brothers, they need a guide!)
MY SUPER-SHOPPING SISTER, who . . . TIME OUT! Wait, I'm thinking . . . Ah, shoot. I still have no idea what to get my sweet sister. (Too much thinking involved . . . I'm exhausted . . . there's still time, it's only November, right? Heck, I'm getting an early start this year by just even thinking about this!) Why don't I just visit the ATM, hand the subsequent envelope to her with the directions "knock yourself out" written on that envelope, and let her "do what she does best." I know she'll find herself the PERFECT gift from me. Maybe I can even convince her to wrap it.
There, my Christmas shopping is done! Hope yours is a Merry One!
Inside the Toy: Educational Insights
"Inside the Toy" is a recurring feature providing an in-depth look at a different toy manufacturer each issue. "Inside the Toy" will give you new insight into the inspirations and personalities behind your favorite toys.
How did Educational Insights get its start?
It started simply. In 1962, Bert and Diane Cutler were looking for a way to help their son, who was a struggling reader. Diane was a teacher, Bert an engineer. They developed their own supplemental phonics curriculum to help their son gain confidence and develop skills in reading. Fellow teachers found it to be a solid program and felt the approach could be sold to other teachers. They poured most of their money into a "Parade Magazine" ad targeted to parents that drew zero response. Two...three weeks afterward, a company based in the northeastern United States ordered 100-200 sets of the product. The company continued to build from that point, from its initial address - the family's garage - to the international company it is today.
So phonics instructional materials were the emphasis initially. How did the company's products evolve to include the broad spectrum of materials offered today?
Educational Insights provided classroom language arts and phonics materials created by teachers for the first eight to ten years. Then, Bert, noticing that all the other educational companies were producing print-based items as well, initiated the introduction of other formats for educational products....manipulatives and hands-on learning materials, and then GeoSafari toys. The product that really invited growth was GeoSafari...At that point, the market widened for Educational Insights - families and the specialty toy market took notice as well.
For those who are not familiar with the breadth of the Educational Insight product line, can you provide an overview?
We carry educational toys and games, electronic learning aids, many hands-on learning manipulatives, creative play products-like pretend play food and such, arts and crafts materials, and classroom and teacher resources... everything from print curriculum materials to laminators. Predominately products are designed for use with children PreK through Grade 8, although some items - as an example the game Blokus - are of high interest to adults as well.
How does new product development happen at Educational Insights? Idea conception?
We really listen to our resellers and customers and consider what they are looking for. Our product development team works constantly through the year. Additionally, twice a year, we hold line reviews. Line reviews involve the president and both national sales managers, pooling knowledge and experience to determine - Is there is a need for this? What competitive products are out there? What line extensions should we be looking at?
Do all Educational Insights' products meet certain criteria established by the company?
Absolutely. Educational Insights products are developed by former teachers. Every product has tested and approved educational value. Wherever possible, teaching extensions are provided with products. Design and inherent content have to be age appropriate and meaningful. Beyond that, all our products are of the highest possible material quality so that they can uphold rigorous classroom and at home use on a day in day out basis. All Educational Insights materials are created to align with national educational standards and current educational practices. They are priced reasonably for the benefit of educators and families. And they are safe...Educational Insights adheres to the highest safety standards.
Many people are genuinely concerned with toy safety. Would you address Educational Insights' position on this topic?
We take product safety very seriously. Much of our manufacturing is done oversees. We visit factories several times a year. We have really built our presence in the market in the last 45 years in developing safe, engaging, quality products. We are in it for the long haul. We are established. Our longevity is vital to the continued success of the company. As a result, we self-police and adhere to the very highest quality standards. The self-policing done by the company is extensive to ensure the highest quality and safety for consumers.
What's the most notable thing that has happened in the past 5 years with Educational Insights?
Within the last 5 years, we've introduced over 600 new items! We have not increased the size of the Educational Insights line, but we have strengthened it tremendously by looking at each product critically, selecting what's best and what works, and then replacing what doesn't work as well with something better. We are committed to making sure our products best help children learn through their play - without them realizing that they are learning.
What is your philosophy of child's play?
Children are fascinating to watch. It's all in their imagination. How many times have we seen a child take a toy intended for a specific use and turn it into something completely different? I love that and am envious of quality. As we get older, we become more compartmentalized.
What makes a good toy? What should parents look for in a quality toy?
There are many factors that come into play. Obviously, we need to be sure the product is well built and safe. As a parent, I look for products that develop skills and imagination, ones that provide both structure and open-ended play. A child's personality has to come into play as well when selecting an item. I have been guilty of buying my children something that I wanted to play with and hoping they would like it as well. There are times we need to learn from our children.
How long have you been with Educational Insights, and what is it like being associated with a big name in the toy industry?
I've been with Educational Insights for nine years. It's a privilege working with such a fine organization. We have a tremendous responsibility to children, families, teachers, resellers, employees and the education industry. As a company, we value the opinions and input we receive on a daily basis. The development of every new product is a source of excitement, from how we envision its use - to ultimately seeing it in use. When I tell people what I do for a living in casual conversation, the response is always the same. People want to know more. I am proud to know that what we manufacture and bring to market truly benefits those who use the items.
What does the team at Educational Insights look like?
We have a lot in common by personality. We are all entrepreneurial in spirit and work ethic. We are all of the highest intellect. (Pause. Laughter). I'm teasing. We just work well together. One of the common bonds is our sense of teamwork. We all have the ability to roll up our sleeves wherever and whenever needed to get projects accomplished. We are not afraid of hard work. We are all very creative problem solvers.
How would you describe yourself?
I am optimistic, hard working, an active listener, patient. I have a dry sense of humor, speak too much with my hands, and am willing to help whoever...whenever.
What motivates you?
Integrity, fairness and hard work. I think we see and hear so much every day about what is wrong and dishonest, that we become immune to it. If I can counter some of that with being honest and fair, then maybe it positively impacts someone along the way. I try to lead by example personally and professionally and hope it's effective. At the end of the day, I know that I accomplished as much as I could. There is always more to be done and never enough hours, but the day flies by and isn't wasted.
If you could be one animal, what would it be? Why?
This changes from day to day. Some days I would say an eagle because they're majestic and soar regardless of what's happening below them. Other days I would say a dog because their memories are short, they rush to greet you when you get home, and they understand loyalty both ways.
Aside from Educational Insights products, what is your favorite toy?
It's the one that I never had. By the time Big Wheels were available, I was too big to ride one. I can still remember that pack of kids riding their Big Wheels down the street, pulling up the hand break for the dramatic stops and feeling cheated somehow.
Who would you most like to meet? Why?
Robin Hood - I love that period of time and standing up for what you believe in.
What has been your greatest obstacle?
The continual pursuit of balance. Between cell phones, laptops and my Blackberry, I am continually accessible to work and customers. This is both good and bad. It's too easy to peek at what may be going on with work during the evening or on weekends.
What specifically have you learned in your time at Educational Insights?
The marketplace has changed so much in recent years that we have to constantly look forward. The technology used in business and product development keeps us on our toes and we constantly look for advancements to keep us on the cutting edge. The most important understanding - the choices we make today will always revisit us in the future.
What's in the future for Educational Insights?
We're continually trying to meet the challenges of teaching in the classroom. Keeping children engaged is harder than ever. Teachers have to compete with technology...cell phones, DVDs, electronics. We will continue to develop electronic learning aids and products of this type for school and home with guidance from our team of former teachers.
What would you like to be doing years from now?
I am fairly handy around the house and would like to learn how to make furniture. My wife looks at me as though I'm crazy when I tell her that, but I'd love to be able to build something for each child that would stand the test of time and generations.
What do you use as your measure of success?
Contentment. Personally or professionally, if you find someone who is content, you find someone who contributes. Being content doesn't mean we don't continue to strive to attain the goals we set for ourselves, but means at this moment I have done what I know is good, right, and important to reach my goals.
Educational Insights, Inc., a subsidiary of Learning Resources, has, for over 40 years, brought to market award-winning educational products that engage, entertain, and educate. The design and development of the company's products is spearheaded by an editorial team of seasoned, professional educators. This, coupled with the fact that the company's products are in use in virtually every elementary school throughout the nation, insures the highest design and instructional integrity in all the company's offerings. The company's product lines include educational toys and games, test prep systems, classroom resources, and electronic learning aids. Fat Brain Toys carries a huge selection of products by Educational Insights. See the included Buyer's Guide for some of the best sellers or go to www.FatBrainToys.com to shop for the complete line of Educational Insights!
The Key to Finding the Perfect Toy?
Choosing the right toy for a child goes beyond identifying quality toys. When a toy is a perfect complement to a child's developmental abilities, expect plenty of enthusiastic play to follow. Keep in mind the developmental stages outlined below as you search out the right toy for the special child in your life. Children gain most intellectually and creatively with toys that match their changing needs. A quick peek at the selections below will help you get started. Simply go to www.FatBrainToys.com and search by the appropriate item number. These toys will encourage you in your quest for the perfect gift, and "wow" the lucky kids who receive them!
For more unique toy & gift suggestions sure to be well received by the kids and adults on your holiday list, visit the "Gift Wizard" - the gift-giving expert, at www.FatBrainToys.com.
Babies (Birth to Age 1)
Babies are always learning about the world through their senses - sight, sound, touch, smell, and taste. As they progress toward their 1st birthday, toys reinforcing cause and effect or the pleasure of repetition are sure to be a hit!
Toddlers (Ages 1-2)
Your toddler is on the go! Toddlerhood involves pleasure in using newly refined large motor skills to walk, push, pull, climb, and - run! Interest in playthings that require simple logic and the manipulation of small objects increases.
Preschool (Ages 3-5)
Mastering make-believe and becoming more social, preschool children find playing pretend wildly fun. Children this age also enjoy puzzles, simple games, play with art materials, and active toys that build strength & coordination.
Early Elementary (Ages 6-9)
Children ages 6-9 enjoy toys that provide surprise or an element of novelty. As individual talents and aptitudes are becoming more prominent, children become more interested in toys that reflect individual interests in art, sports, music, science, problem solving, language, or specific subject matter.
Pre-Teens (Ages 9-12)
Pre-teens having had many intellectual and creative experiences thrive in play experiences grounded in real life applications that make them think and allow them the freedom to dream. Pre-teen children are often highly social and seek toys that will wow their peers as well.
Teenagers/Adults (Ages 12+)
As interests and aptitudes become more pronounced, teenagers and adults seek items which are a good match for their intellectual or creative interests.
Return of the Reviews: Grandparents Provide Wisdom and Youthful Spirit
Marbles Twirling Around Beautifully Crafted Monuments - Quadrilla Twist Set
"I recently purchased a Quadrilla Twist set for my 4 year old grandson. He loved it, as did the rest of the family. We had several adults 'volunteering' to put different designs together for my grandson. We all sat and watched marbles twirl and roll around these beautifully crafted monuments for hours! This is a great toy to use to spend time with your children. Four years old is a little young to be able to build by themselves, but what fun we had as a family playing with this set."
Parking Garages That Draw Attention - Dado Cubes
"I purchased the Dado Cubes for my 2-year-old grandson. I gave them to him at a family gathering. He loved them and began to play with them immediately, but he was quickly joined by the adults. I was amazed at all the different ways they found to stack the cubes. I loved it when my grandson turned the cubes into a multi-level parking garage and put a car or truck into each of the stacked cubes. He also really enjoys stacking them inside each other, and because they have no bottoms, he can nest them in any order, fitting each cube into its place. A great deal of fun that entertains all of us."
Noteworthy Expressions - Grand Piano
"I purchased the Grand Piano for my two year old granddaughter. If you saw her expression when she first hit a few notes you'd know why you're in this business. She loves her piano and even at her age sings along with her 'playing'. We expect many months of enjoyment for her and the whole family."
Grandmas with a Playful Side - Peek A Boo Jack In A Box
"I received the Peek A Boo Jack in a Box. It is a gift for my granddaughter, but since she is only 4 months old, my daughter and I played with it for a while!!! She didn't seem to mind. I start my Christmas shopping early, since I have 21 grandchildren and 3 great grandchildren. But we did love it and had a good time. I like it because it is different. Loved your newspaper also. I am sure you'll be hearing from me and my family a lot. Thank you so much, also great service."
Dreaming Big At Age 4 - Anchor Building Box #6
"My grandchildren, ages 4, 6 and 9, love the Anchor Blocks. They are sturdy and easy to build with. They do take a bit of dexterity as they are not large, but the 4 year old has no trouble. As he was building with them, he said, 'I build things other men never dream of.' The blocks inspire imagination; spatial abilities are honed. The children need help understanding the building plans included with the sets, but with a little help, amazing edifices can be erected. The Anchor Blocks are a 100% hit!"
Sweenies - Nail Arts
"I was very pleased with this product. It is a perfect gift for girls between the ages of 10 and 13 - 'tweenies.' It gave this grandmother, age 67, the chance to be a 'sweenie' - senior tweenie."
Easy on the Eyes Too - Bilibo
"Our two grandsons (ages 4 and 2) are really enjoying their new Bilibo. Not only is it a quality made toy but its uses are only limited by your own imagination. Excellent, excellent toy! I highly recommend this product to all. It stimulates imaginative play and is very good for neurological stimulation. It also helps with balance and eyesight."
Feeling Smart, Ambitious and Entertained - Snap Circuits Pro
"Fabulous. Snap Circuits keeps my grandson entertained for hours. And he feels smart and is interested in learning more about electricity! Thank you so much!"
Horse Crazy Girls - Folding Horse Stable
"While I bought the Folding Horse Stable to add to the collection I have at my house for when my almost four year old granddaughter comes to stay with me. In retrospect, I think I actually bought it for myself - as a horse crazy young girl I would have been thrilled to have had such a fine stable as this one! My granddaughter enjoyed it too and played with it endlessly with her horses when she came to visit. It's beautifully made and sturdy, the doors slide easily and the accompanying 'fence' is a useful accessory. Another fine Melissa and Doug toy - I really love their products."
Passing the Wrench - Erector 30 Model Set
"I bought the Erector Model 30 set for my grandson. I had Erector sets when I was a bit younger and I think they helped me to develop my mechanical skills. My grandson has shown a strong mechanical aptitude and I can't wait to give this to him on his birthday. I think the materials are slightly redesigned since my days (1940's) and appear to be much safer. I like the use of an Allen wrench in place of a screwdriver. The illustrations showing how to construct each item are very good."
Giving Yourself a Treat - Erector Ferris Wheel Set
"Ordering was easy and delivery was very timely. The Erector Ferris Wheel Set is a lot of fun. I am 50 years old and bought it for myself to relive some childhood memories. Worth the money!! I am already looking at other Erector sets. I will no doubt be buying myself something soon. As for children using this set, I would say that with an adult helping they would have fun. If they are under 9 or 10 it may be too much on their own. Give yourself a treat and buy an Erector set!"
Topping the Fun Had By Your Granddaughter - Color Changing Top
"I just love to watch the color change as the top spins. I had been looking for an old fashioned top when I found this one. My husband says that I'm having more fun with it than our 15 month old granddaughter."
Naptime Conversations - Teach Me Toddler Girl
"When my granddaughter, age 2, opened the box, she was thrilled. She played with it all morning and took it with her for a nap. We could hear the doll talking to her and she to the doll. Later, she put her in the stroller with her. Quite a sight!"
Ageless Mechanical Wonder - Mr. Machine
"I have searched for a long while looking for this toy, as I remember it from my early childhood...I was born in '57 so I was quite young. However, I remember this as I loved to take it apart and put it together again. Thank you for reproducing this toy in such exact detail. Everyone that has seen it looks at in wonder as it still has 'that' quality. It never grows old."
If you liked this issue of Toy Times, Click here for a FREE subscription!
|
Elkhorn, Nebraska USA 68022