We do not solely purchase toys during Christmas. Birthdays, celebrations, and surprise parties are all typical occurrences. We purchase toys throughout the year. It is critical to get a toy for two reasons: we want the child to love it and we want to appear good. These two conceptions do not always coexist harmoniously. Allow me to explain: there are occasions when we are so taken with the toy that we overlook its suitability for the youngster.
When it comes to purchasing, despite our best efforts, we make mistakes. Here, we’ll share some of the errors we’ve learned from parents and friends, as well as by monitoring children’s reactions to toys.
1. Ignoring the Toy’s Labelling and Warnings
Toys are typically brightly coloured and visually appealing. We enjoy the box, the presentation, pressing a button to hear what it says or generates sound, and we think, “wow, how wonderful; he/she is going to adore this one,” and we cease looking at anything else. The problem is that the box indicates the manufacturer’s recommended minimum age, whether the item has small parts, whether it contains batteries, and so forth. It is quite easy to make a mistake if we ignore or neglect this information.
2. Failure to Read the Directions
Regardless of how easy the toy is, the majority of them come with instructions for use, which must be read before to use. If we do so, we risk inadvertently abusing the toy. That is, we may be using it for a purpose other than what the toy was designed for, or we could be unable to use all of the parts because we are unfamiliar with them; and, in the worst-case scenario, we could ruin it completely, preventing the child from enjoying it.
3. Ignoring the Recommended Minimum Age
We frequently believe that “our child is bright,” and hence purchase a toy intended for youngsters over the age of three for a two-year-old. It’s really aggravating for the child who is unable to utilize the toy since he or she does not understand how to operate it and thus sets it aside. We spend the money and the intention that went into purchasing it, and it’s all for naught. Not only that, the regulations establish a minimum age to ensure the safety of children, which is ultimately what we care about.
4. To Purchase Exclusively Educational Toys
It is quite acceptable for a child to learn while playing. However, we cannot compel the youngster to play exclusively with educational toys. The child must have fun. Otherwise, the toy is rendered ineffective.
5. Ignoring Advertisement
Commercials on television are intended to attract youngsters and even adults! You must sit down with the child and ask them what they would do with that toy if they had it. This manner, we can filter out some of the “fireworks” generated by advertising, bringing us back to earth and giving us a more realistic view of the object.
6. Purchasing All-in-one Toys
Certain games do everything. When children see them on television or in stores, they are taken aback by the variety of amazing things they do. However, there is a problem: if the toy performs all functions, what does the youngster do but stare at it? That is not enjoyable. By the second use, the toy is bound to be forgotten. The toy should be a means to an end, not an end in itself.
7. Purchasing Toys Based on Gender
Why should the possibilities given by toys be limited? Boys may enjoy playing with kitchenettes and cleaning sets, while girls may enjoy playing with cars, soccer balls, and basketballs; why should we not purchase these activities for them if they request them? Children are inquisitive and desire to learn new things. We should not impose any restrictions on them.
8. Purchasing Everything They Request
Children typically request anything they see advertised or have seen in a store or at a friend’s house. We must make an informed choice, matching the toy to the child’s personality, preferences, and worries. Not everything he requests will be granted. The youngster enjoys it and requests it; we must filter out what is not suitable for him.
Now, let’s look at some of the best toys which you can gift your child for this Christmas.
Best Toys you Can Buy this Christmas
1. L.O.L. Surprise Tweens Fashion Doll Freshest
Price: $17.98
Oh, my gosh, L.O.L. Surprise dolls, you never cease to amaze me. The dolls from this year have an almost ethereal feel to them. They’re extremely futuristic and glistening, even more so than in previous years.
This doll includes 15 unique surprises, which means your children will likely want more than one to mix and match costumes, shoes, and accessories.
2. Fisher-Price Laugh & Learn On-the-Go Camper
Price: $44.99
Prepare your small camper for the great outdoors without ever leaving the comfort of your own home. A child’s pretend camper comes complete with a percolator in the manner of a campfire and a little s’more sandwich, ready for your child’s imagination to take it to the next level.
What we love about this toy is that it is meant to work with your child as he or she progresses through the various toddler stages. It functions as a walker for little children, the s’mores serve as a stacking toy, the fishing pole and “fish” serve as shape sorters, and the entire structure is self-contained.
3. Dreamworks Hatching Toothless Interactive Baby Dragon
Price: $49.97
With this black-and-white speckled, shell-wrapped dragon, the surprise-and-unboxing craze is still going strong. When the shell of young Toothless is upset, it will fall away, revealing the little dragon’s sparkling eyes and endearing smile.
Once Toothless has hatched, he can listen to your child’s inquiries, play games, and even send out a charming little roar in response to your youngster. This Christmas gift for children is comparable to owning a pet that requires no maintenance.
4. Custom Crayon Name Set
Price: $19.95
You’re always proud of whatever your child draws (even if they’re simply scribbles), but these personalized crayons will help them create some truly remarkable masterpieces. They can be customized to spell out your child’s name and gradually fade to other colours as they colour and play.
5. Not Parent Approved: A Card Game for Kids, Families and Mischief Makers
Price: $25.49
Trying to think of a unique present for tweens? They’re just as difficult to shop for as your father! Get them this silly card game that will make them feel a little wicked — yet is completely appropriate for their age.
6. Alex Ombré Hair FX
Price: $9.30
Is your tween pleading with you to allow her to colour her hair? This Christmas, surprise her with the Alex Ombré Hair FX kit. To apply, sandwich the tips of her hair between the pink, purple, or teal clamp and drag down to colour.
And don’t worry, Mom; the colour will fade the next day.
