While checking out my favorite blogs I saw that former Family Resource blogger, Jennifer Chait has posted links to the W.A.T.C.H. 2008 top ten Worst Toy List.

Jennifer states that there are some pretty suspect toys out there this year. For more on her post and for a link to the list, visit her blog, Tree Hugging Family. You will also find tons of green living news, perfect for those of you who are very eco-conscious.

When choosing toys for your children:

Check the age appropriate information. Never buy any toy for a child under 3 with small parts. If your child is older and still mouths items (some special needs children do this) do the same check. Remember, if it can fit into a toilet paper tube, it can fit into your child’s mouth.

You get what you pay for. Sometimes the plastic in low cost toys have chemicals (like lead) that are harmful. If you can afford it, stick with name brands. Even a visit to the thrift store if you are low income will bring better results than brand new, low quality toys.

eBay, Amazon, and Overstock dot com are great places to find holiday deals. Amazon offers used items. Do not be afraid to buy something used if it is in excellent condition. Often these items were not really used, just purchased and not wanted.

Gift cards for kids can be a great idea. Kids get to carry their own credit card’ and choose their gift. If you are buying for a relative’s child, check out all of the really cool decorated gift cards out there. Some are really neat!

Above all, have fun. Do not stress over gifts. The more love you put into your gift, the more important it feels to the child. Years later they will remember the thought, not the toy in the junk box.

This entry was posted on Thursday, November 20th, 2008 at 5:32 pm and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.