Summer and Christmas are the times when children receive more toys. And although many of them are gifts from other people, parents also look at toy stores from time to time. That's why we want to know how to find the perfect toy.
But let's not get illusions, because we don't have the key to always be right. We will begin by pointing out that there is no ideal, perfect or exclusive toy for every child in every age. However, we will try to approach that toy through this decalogue.
The most sophisticated or expensive toy is not always the best. One of the questions we must ask ourselves before buying a toy is whether or not it awakens the child's interest. More than if it bears such a mark or the drawing of such a fashionable children's character, it is necessary to notice that the toy develops and fosters the creativity of the child. An artisan or self-made toy with our help can be more appreciated than expensive.
Not all toys "congenian" with all children. It has to be taken into account the personality of the little one, although also that his way of being can evolve. If he is rather shy, socialization games that involve various players will do very well. For a child with a tendency to excessive activity, toys that favor attention, perception and art are appropriate. This does not mean that children with different personalities are denied toys of one kind or another.
The toy must be for the child a source of fun, learning and development of the abilities (linguistic, cognitive, logical and spatial reasoning, emotional, motor ...).
We always propose alternative activities to videogames, but if we also decide on them, since they are well used, they should be checked, as some enhance racism, intolerance and violence. Let's get acquainted with the codes and buy the appropriate games for the child's age. Let's share video games with them and make a responsible and informed purchase.
A toy that encourages sexist, racist or violent behavior is not a good toy. Remember that one of the ways in which we transmit sexist stereotypes to our children is through the toys and the roles associated with them.
We must ensure, as far as possible, that the toy we buy respects the safety standards (in terms of size, loose parts, the materials with which it has been manufactured are not toxic ...). Unfortunately, security controls are not always adequate, so if we observe any irregularity we must notify consumption.
Let's not saturate the child with toys, sometimes we fall into the error of giving it all, even if they don't ask us for anything, or we fall into excessive consumerism that doesn't do good either to the pocket or to the child. An excess of toys can destroy the fantasy and cause the child to get bored. Pediatricians recommend not giving away more than three toys.
Let's give books. I always remember that a friend says that she is "the great aunt" because she gives books to her nephews, but they are the only ones they receive. Giving books is always right, no matter how much a child throws himself at other more striking toys. A book is a good gift for children to learn to appreciate reading and enjoy reading or listening to stories. It is never too early to read with them, and the more they become familiar with the books, the more they will enjoy reading them in the future and telling stories.
In relation to many of the above points, it is important that parents adopt a critical attitude towards toy advertising (printed, on television ...), which often shows us a distorted reality (when nonexistent); or his point of view is sexist; or they present us with inappropriate toys (they do not meet the minimum safety requirements, they are warlike ...).
Finally, we must not forget that toys are an ideal means or complement for establish relationships and strengthen ties between fathers and sons and daughters, between brothers and sisters, family or friends. No matter how individual or lonely the game may be, we can help them, teach them, share. If a toy is "perfect" because it meets the above requirements, it would cease to be if it isolates the child "in his world" for a long time.
If we ask ourselves these questions before buying a toy and follow the advice when we have it at home, it will be easier for us to be near the perfect toy. Although remember, they have an expiration date because the child grows, but there will always be smaller children who love to receive that toy, if it has survived in conditions to the transfer of the games of its first owner ...
Photos | carlosfpardo on Flickr-CC and the Andalusian Institute for Women In Babies and more | Pediatricians recommend not giving away more than three toys, Avoid excessive consumption on Three Kings Day, Non-sexist and non-violent toys
