Toy Tips

Checklist for Spring Break Travels!

Toy Tips — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 07:08:00 GMT

It's Spring Break time!

The plans have been made or are in the making. Regardless if you stay home, visit family or are heading toward warm weather, there is always extra to plan for. Toy Tips has been reviewing family vacation destinations for over 10 years and in our travels, we put together a last minute checklist to consider for family vacation travel.

What kinds of activities are there for kids to do as soon as you arrive?
Are there special child-friendly restaurants in the area or hotel menus with choices your child likes and will eat?
How far is your destination from the local airport? Plan for cab or driving time.
If traveling by car, is your car in good shape, are the tires filled? Do you have GPS in the car or on your phone?
Are there free shuttles to/from the hotel?
How far will you be from historic or recreation sites? Do a little online research not to miss a teaching moment!
If staying in a hotel. are there special units, rooms or decor just for families?
Is there a refrigerator in your hotel room for snacks and cold milk for the kids? If not , ask if you can have one.
Is there a store close-by for last minute emergency runs?
Are there any special amentities for families or children? Kids love the soaps and shampoos.
If traveling with an infant, does the hotel provide a safe crib (ask for the brand name and then check recalls on recalls.gov for the most current recalls before you go)?
Did you pack enough small travel toys or surprises to keep the kids busy?
Got jackets or ponchos just in case?
Check with your airline as far as luggage weight regulations.

We will be posting our destination reviews on toytips.com so check back in our vacation destination area on the website to places to go and great things to see all over America.

-Marianne

CLEAN those toys!

Toy Tips — Fri, 01 Jan 2010 06:49:00 GMT

It's the NEW YEAR! A time to celebrate our children, all the new skills they will learn, all the new interests they will have and all the new toys you will buy! It's also the time for Toy Cleaning!

Dust, dirt and grime live in the playroom, everyday. Use only all-natural non-chemical cleaner sprays to rid toys of germs.

To clean plush toys--check the label and if they are washing machine safe, use a non-bleach detergent (natural detergent free of phosphates and artificial fragrance is best). You can also freeze stuffed toys in a Ziploc overnight. This will kill bugs.

Keep toy storage clean- wipe out bins, toy boxes, and toy shelves often.

To clean plastic, wood, foam and aluminum toys, The new Toy Tips Toy Cleaner is an all-natural, non-chemical way to clean toys that was developed by Marianne Szymanski, founder of the Toy Tips Research Institute who has been professionally testing toys for close to 20 years.

"Think of all those tiny little hands holding, squeezing and loving their toys. Now think of how often they are washed and cleaned after use, rarely," says Marianne Szymanski. Made without alcohol, bleach, dyes, artificial fragrances or phosphates, Toy Tips Toy Cleaner is a pure all-natural solution to gently clean dirt, dust and grime that builds up on children's toys. It's available online:

Alternatives to the Toy Tips Toy Cleaner:
Aluminum Toys - Never use a product with baking soda.
Foam - Use soap and water.
Wood Toys - These are delicate. Dust first and use a non- bleach product.
Plastic - Avoid cleaners with Orange Oil. Avoid cleaners with artificial fragrances for children with allergies.

Buy the TOY TIPS toy cleaner here:

OFFICIAL TOY TIPS STATEMENT ON ZHU ZHU PET ACCUSATIONS

Toy Tips — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 18:28:00 GMT

Official TOY TIPS Statement on the Zhu Zhu Pets. Trust the CPSC and unless a recall is announced, keep in mind that unregulated safety testing by independent labs without full disclosure should not dictate your decisions. This also goes for PAID toy awards and PAID spokespersons. Consumers need to realize that there are many sources out there that may have intentions to help assist with advice but some groups give only opinions. Without fact-checked research, there is no need to get startled. Follow cpsc.gov for updates on recalls. And, please don't buy the "hot" toy just to have it. It's only hot if an AGE-APPROPRIATE child truly shares in the joy of receiving it.

Marianne

The "I want that" list

Toy Tips — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:13:00 GMT

THE TOY TIPS "I Want that" Toy List

Kids are writing their letters to Santa and the post office is busy.

But, how do you find that very Best Holiday Present Ever?

Easy..

1. Be sure the toy is age appropriate. Start with the age guidelines on the box.

2. Toys should be chosen based on the current skills of the intended child.

Don't buy a toy that is too old for a child, they will become frustrated.

If a toy is too young and easy, a child will be bored.

3. Make sure the intended child is really interested in your pick.

(Don't buy a Zhu Zhu pet for a baby!)

Here are some picks from Toy Tips that are both fun and smart toy choices.

You can review the independent report cards on toytips.com.

Cahootie

American Girl Rebecca Rubin Doll

Princess Tiana

Kids Preferred 70th Anniversary Madeline Doll

For new toy ideas, visit toytips.com and follow me on twitter.com/toytips for a daily toy tip!

Happy Holidays!

-Marianne Szymanski

Let "Holiday Toy Lists" Be Your Guide

Toy Tips — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 22:36:00 GMT

Let "Hot Holiday Toy Lists " Be Your Guide

Marianne Szymanski is the founder of theToy Tips Research Institute, author of Toy Tips: A Parent's Essential Guide to Smart Toy Choices and the publisher of Toy Tips and Parenting Hints Magazine.

As you look through the multitude of holiday "best toy lists," BECOME your child's personal toy expert. Research shows that toys are developmental tools that a child uses to grow intellectually and emotionally. Each play experience enhances a child's learning process. In this economy, now is the time to maximize play value and choose toys that provide use again and again.

For safety sake, choices must be age appropriate. If you have a toddler, a 1000 piece construction set is not the best pick. (Keep all toys with small pieces away from children under age 4).

There are thousands of toys to choose from, so as you start putting ideas for your shopping list together, choose toys based on a child's individual AGE, NEEDS and personal INTERESTS.

While one personality type may like puzzles and another may like sport or social toys, this does not mean they both may want the "it" toy of the season. Match their age group, then find out first what their current skills are and match that.

Kids will play most with toys that they enjoy and they can accomplish. Buying something too difficult most likely creates a frustrating play experience. Buying something that is too easy, likely creates boredom. Buying something just because does not always end up being used. The best thing a shopper can do is to use these lists as a starting point and follow 3 easy steps before making a decision on what to buy.

1. Analyze- What does the child have already? (Stacks of board games, tubs of building blocks, shelves of books) Take a quick INVENTORY of your child's collection and see if there is a type of toy
missing from the playroom. A new kind of toy will trigger interest and intrigue once opened.

2. Simplify- Parents "think" kids need a lot of toys, then regret having so many around the house! It is best to have a variety of TOY TYPES, so a child uses a range of developmental skills.

3. Magnify- It is imperative that toys are chosen with care that "MAGNIFY' a child's current skills and challenges those they need to work on.

Toys are an investment in a child's development. The return is who our child will become tomorrow.

Email your questions and follow me on twitter.com/toytips for a free daily toy tip!.

Happy Toy Shopping,

Marianne Szymanski

Halloween Kids Party and Costume Ideas

Toy Tips — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:42:00 GMT

Halloween costume and party ideas for kids need to change every year. It's rare, she will be agree to Cinderella twice in a row.

Kids interests change daily and so do all the new licensed characters to choose from. The standard scary stuff is usually reserved for the 7+ crowd and the not-so-scary Halloween pumpkins are cutest when they toddle.

If you're in a pickle on what to choose for your child, we have some ideas to start with. Be creative and age appropriate and as long as your child agrees to the costume, trick or treating should be painless.

Room moms and parent helpers are always looking for crafts for classroom Halloween parties, so take a peek at our Halloween segments on FOX.

http://www.fox6now.com/news/wakeup/toytips/

Boo!

Marianne

Shake, Rattle and Roll

Toy Tips — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 08:38:00 GMT

I am asked this question often, "What is best baby rattle?"

It's not about the best, it's about what it does. Baby likes to hold it, shake it, chew it, swing it and fling it.
Mom and Dad like to shake it for baby to see and then baby usually likes to smile, reach for it, bat it and
take it.

So with that in mind, there are 3 kinds of rattles:

The first rattle mom and dad holds:
Any rattle that make sounds and is colorful and appealing to look at is what is most important.
This will attract baby's attention and as mom and dad moves it side to side, baby can practice eye tracking and following the object.

A bit heavy, this one is for mom and dad to use and play with baby or it makes a great keepsake on a shelf in the nursery.
Holgate Baby Rattle Block
http://www.amazon.com/Holgate-HZ2051-Baby-Rattle-Block/dp/B001LQWVOA

The rattle baby holds:
Choose wisely and look for anything that can have pieces pulled off (choking hazard). I always tug at everything before we test rattles to be sure of this. You don't want baby to see or touch any rattle that can be a potential danger.

If baby can hold it, keep it soft. Tactile development starts with the recognition of touch. he trend is organic cotton coverings and natural wood .

Organic Cotton Knitted Bear
http://www.dovelightinternational.com/b-165797011-B00175YU7G-Organic_Cotton_Knitted_Bear_TeetherRattle_Safe_Non_toxic_Toy.html

Eco Friendly Dandelion Organic Cotton Baby Cloth Ring Rattle
http://www.amazon.com/Friendly-Dandelion-Organic-Cotton-Rattle/dp/B00282Y7OS

Sassy Earth Brights Wooden Cherry Tree Rattle
http://www.amazon.com/Sassy-Brights-Wooden-Cherry-Rattle/dp/B000X4NYS8

This Waldorf inspired Cheery Rattle is made of natural wood and the moving bead encourage sensory development. This one makes an excellent choice as a natural toy gift.
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss?url=search-alias%3Dbaby-products&field-keywords=B000VKYBYA&x=0&y=0

Whimsical rattles are just fun to look at, not just for baby, but only for mom and dad!
Kushies Zolo Cha Cha Iota
http://www.amazon.com/Kushies-Zolo-Cha-Iota/dp/B001UOKK78/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=baby-products&qid=1253597984&sr=1-1

Most likely if baby can hold it. baby will chew it, so when you are making choices keep in mind the controversial issues of BPA and Phthalates in soft plastic rattles.

The heirloom baby shower gift:
Silver Barbell Baby Rattle by Harmony Ball Co
http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss?url=search-alias%3Dbaby-products&field-keywords=B002J9ATEM&x=0&y=0

Enjoy playing with your baby. Nothing is more important than time together and rattles are one fun way to play at this stage in his/her development.

Marianne

The Educational Play Experience

Toy Tips — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 08:02:00 GMT

The Educational Play Experience

Whether its playtime, spelling time or math time, toys can be tools for students to have a productive learning day. In an educational environment, toys can be an option to a textbook, chalkboard or smart board.

Developing skills is the whole idea behind an educational play experience.

Look for toys that promote one or more of these skills:

Imagination: Forming mental images in your own mind without use of the 5 senses: sight, hearing, touch, taste or smell.

Motor Skills: Gross motor development is the overall muscle movement of large muscle groups in the body. Toys that encourage lifting your head, rolling over, sitting up, balancing, crawling, and walking are all examples of toys the promote gross motor movement. Fine motor development refers to the development of skills involving the smaller musclc group that include the ability to hold small objects and transfer objects from hand to hand. Look for toys that encourage use of the pincer grasp (thumb and forefinger) to pick up small objects, cutting, coloring, writing, zippering, tying or threading beads.

Self-esteem: How you perceive your own self worth. Behavior may reflect self-esteem (assertiveness/shyness, confidence) and toys that help a child with self-discovery can enhance self esteem. Board games that challenge the mind, art projects and

anything creative are the best examples of toys that can help develop positive self esteem.

Speech: The vocalization form of communication. Toys that encourage talking, repeating, speaking, annunciation, phonics and singing are all enhancing the development of speech.

For toy ideas, visit toytips.com and follow me on twitter.com/toytips for a daily toy tip!

--Marianne Szymanski

A Candy Land Birthday Party!

Toy Tips — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:39:00 GMT

My daughter's Candy Land Birthday Party

Eleanor Abbott, who was recovering from polio, created the CANDY LAND Game as a lighthearted activity to entertain children affected by the disease. In 1949, Ms. Abbott sold the game to Milton Bradley, who marketed the game for $1.00 with the slogan, “a sweet little game … for sweet little folks.” Since the game’s introduction , the distinctive red-and-white peppermint name has been printed on more than 40 million CANDY LAND games.

It was my daughter's 5th birthday this past weekend and we wanted to throw an all-kids backyard party. Since her first word was "candy" she always asks for it and we barely give it to her, we thought this may make a great surprise theme. So, we transformed our backyard into Candy Land!
Candy Land is the most classic board game I can think of that makes a great gift for any age. I mean, really, who does not enjoy visiting Lord Licorice, Queen Frostine or Gramma Nut? If you considering this theme for your child's birthday, here is how we did it:

Every tree is my yard had red and white crepe paper trunks with pinatas in every tree. The "Candy Bar" had tall glass ( I didn't have plastic) containers filled with Twizzlers, Tootsie Rolls, Laffy Taffy, Bubble Gum and every other kid-friendly candy you can think of. Taped pieces of colored construction paper made the path from the driveway to the entrance and giant gumdrops made of ccolored poster board taped onto wooden stakes made a nice gumdrop pass down the hill to our yard. The playset was King Castle and the kids had fun swinging, sliding, climbing and digging in the sandbox (sans sand) which was filled with dry dirt for the "molasses swamp." Hand-passed chocolates were the hit of this station if you dared to listen to the "scary story" of the swamp.

For games, we played pass the peppermint on a spoon (2 teams race to carry the peppermint to the finish line) and Gramma Nutt made an appearance for a special peanut shelling game (only if all guests are nut-free with no allergies)

The kids frosted Pepperridge Farm Ginger Men Cookies with colored frosting to make their own game piece and snack.

The younger guests made candy necklaces from licorice string and Froot Loops while the older children made friendship bracelets. The jumping tent let kids burn off energy and their sugar high!
Hula hoops hung from the trees (we called them gigantic lifesavers) and the parent-child the big hula hoop contest was a big hit. The finale was a bubble gum blowing contest.

I made a white sheet cake and decorated it like Candy Land.

Playing Candy Land with your child creates memories for a lifetime but there are many versions of Candy Land, not just one with a new version being introduced this Holiday Season. (Candy Land Sweet Celebration).

Candy Land - Milton Bradley Board Game
Hasbro Candy Land Castle Game
Candy Land - Dora The Explorer
Candy Land Retro Edition Board Game by Milton Bradley
Deluxe Candyland
Pooh Candyland
Candy Land Book Series
Candy Land DVD Game
Candyland Sweet Celebration
Candyland Carabiner Keychain

If you just can't get enough candy, try these toys too!

Scientific Explorer's Tasty Science Chemistry in the Kitchen Kit
Barbie Candy Glam Style Station Styling Head
Candy Matching Game
Grab It!
Thames & Kosmos Candy Factory
Junior 11" Classic Gumball Machine
Carousel King Gumball Machine
John Deere JR Gumball Machine
Make Your Own Gummies

For more toy ideas, visit toytips.com and follow me on twitter.com/toytips for a daily toy tip!

--Marianne Szymanski

Build It! Make It! Create It!

Toy Tips — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 06:19:00 GMT

Toy Tips with Marianne Szymanski - Build It, Make It, Create It!

From blocks to bricks or even art kits, most kid love to create. While the littlest ones enjoy the building up and knocking down play pattern, an older child may work for hours to create their masterpiece.

Here are a few ideas to start with but the best advice I can give you is to make sure that your child's interest and attention span match the type of kit you buy. There is nothing worse than having a building or craft kit that is too hard for your child. They will get frustrated, bored and and then you get stuck finishing the job! (Although, there is nothing wrong with that... it's probably more fun that you think!)

Once it is finished, make a BIG deal out of it. Your child wants to see it displayed on the fireplace mantle, hanging on a refrigerator or wrapped up as a gift for grandma. The other fun part of making and creating is the positive self esteem a child gains by completing the project. Well done!

* Spin Art Machine Rose Art by Mega Brands

* Snap Circuits SC-300

* Creativity For Kids Butterfly Bedroom

* Brickadoo Villa

* I-Gami 350 Piece Flowers Kit

* Paperoni Art Large Activity Kit-Fairyland Set

For more crafty ideas, visit toytips.com and follow me on twitter.com/toytips for a daily toy tip!

--Marianne

Board Game Revival.

Toy Tips — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 05:46:00 GMT

Board Game Revival

By Marianne Szymanski

July 13, 2009

Every Wednesday, I report on results from the Toy Tips Research Institute for my blog on amazon.com. I thought I'd share last week's topic here too because I received so many responses from readers. Everyone has a favorite board game and better yet, there are so many new board games out every year that can well be on their way to classics. Board Game Revival is making a comeback as more families pursue at-home summer activities and family fun. Games build connections and promote social family interaction. They serve as parenting tools by teaching and reinforcing real-life skills including following rules, taking turns, thinking strategically and learning to lose. The laughter, face to face conversation and quick response is what makes family time so fun during playtime. It is important that the youngest player is included while still holding the interest of the older players and keeping mom and dad entertained and alert. Some titles have versions that are Jr. which are great for families with younger children. Look for other choices that focus on preteens and teens to play with mom and dad.

The big rule. if board game is still around since you were a kid, it must be fun so try it!

For more board game ideas, visit toytips.com and follow me on twitter.com/toytips for a daily toy tip!

--Marianne Szymanski

Robots in the Classroom are Cool

Toy Tips — Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:16:00 GMT

Robotics Makes Classroom Learning Fun!

IMAGINE a classroom filled with laughter, experimentation and teamwork. In this classroom, every child’s eyes shine with excitement as they describe how their team solved problems…like how to determine the correct gear ratio combination, or how a touch sensor works.

The kids in this environment are more than passive receptors of knowledge; they are active constructors of lasting conceptual understanding. These kids are experiencing the joys of inquiry learning and will draw upon this experience for a long time. These are the kids in my classroom as they work together in cooperative teams to build robots.

Incorporating robotics has been an important part of my science classroom for years because it is much more than idle play. Robotics challenges students to explore problem solving and develops a deep sense of the value of innovation. By tackling increasingly more difficult challenges, they experience the thrill of success and often, the temporary disappointment of defeat.

They also quickly realize that each team member is an asset with their own unique perspective. Robotics is much more than play. It brings with it the joy of learning and the opportunity for exploration that stimulates the curious mind.

Green Toy Cleaning

Toy Tips — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 05:30:00 GMT

Introducing Toy Tips Toy Cleaner
Cleaning, Don't Forget The Toybox! Available on amazon.com

After 3 years of research, Toy Tips, the caring company that brings parents independent toy testing and rates them for child developmental value debuts the first-ever all-natural toy cleaner.

Made without alcohol, bleach, dyes, artificial fragrances or phosphates, Toy Tips Toy Cleaner is a pure all-natural solution to gently clean dirt, dust and grime that builds up on children's toys.

"Think of all those tiny little hands holding, squeezing and loving their toys. Now think of how often they are washed and cleaned after use, rarely," says Marianne Szymanski founder and creator of the Toy Tips Research Institute.

This is not an antibacterial product but a cleaning product to rid toys of dust, dirt, spit up and grime. Marianne Szymanski says that parents can use a bleach and water solution to clean toys but who really has the time, wants to smell the bleach and is comfortable with any chemical residue left on a toy that can be mouthed by a child. You can wash plastic toys in a dishwasher but many toys are just too big to fit. A backyard hose is great for outdoor toys but you need a soap solution to really get them clean.

The Toy Tips Toy Cleaner is a convenient all-natural cleaning solution to spray and wipe clean. It has a pure aromatherapy light scent of lavender and chamomile and smells very fresh.

With a regular household cleaning routine in mind, The Tips Toy Cleaner goes from the playroom to the nursery to kitchen to the bath. Every parent knows toys are in every room of the house. Made for surfaces of hardwood, vinyl, plastic, aluminum and foam.

There are no orange oils that over time can affect a plastic surface, no alcohol, bleach or chemical residue and no baking soda which can break down the oxides of metal over time for precious collectible aluminum toys. Take a bottle and spray plastic toys, vinyl toys, wooden toys, foam playmats, high chairs, cribs, strollers, car seats and play areas including hardwood floors and that tiny mirror in baby's first peek-a-boo. It's formulated for toys, kids furniture, the nursery and the playroom and can be used on other surfaces around the house. It even does wonders on windows!

The spray bottle is a PETE #1 recyclable phlalate-free container and is simple to use. Spay a surface, wipe clean and it quickly dries. The sprayer has a dripless closing feature and a ratchet neck.

The reason it took 3 years to develop the Toy Tips Toy Cleaner is because we have worked with green chemists, toxicologists and microbiologists to perfect the recipe with all natural ingredients down to the preservative. Organic essential oils scent the solution to a calming smell of lavender and chamomile.

*24 ounce spray bottle $5.99
*Twin Pack $10
*Case of 12 bottles for preschool, daycare, and commercial use $50

BONUS
*Each purchase includes a $20 subscription to Toy Tips and Parenting Hints Magazine. Available on amazon.com now!

Toys for children with language delays

Toy Tips — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 08:02:00 GMT

Communication skills can be expanded through play.

For children with language delays, look for toys that offer repetition. Books that have repetitive phrases or toys that continually repeat concepts and directions are great choices. Electronic toys feature lots of lights, sounds, and music and encourage cause and effect. It's always a good idea to take advantage of "Try Me" packaging to test quality and sound levels. Determine the best position for the child to be in to maximize the play and educational value of the toy or game. Toys can be played with in many ways, either seated at a table, wheelchair, or someone's lap, sitting or lying on the floor, or by using a particular piece of specialized equipment.

Before shopping for a toy, be sure to collect the following information: exact age, personality type, a list of interests and skills, any special challenges that can affect a child's physical limitations and play experience, and current interests.

Suggested types of toys by age:

Infants: Birth through 1 year: Toys should expose a baby to a variety of experiences: sight, sound, touch (shape, size, texture), and taste (because many times, toys go into the mouth). Bright colors, lightweight toys such as rattles, and squishy toys encourage early grasping, holding, and exploring. Once a child is able to sit up, introduce blocks, nesting cups, stacking rings, and toys that require reaching. For crawlers and early walkers, choose large balls and push-pull toys.

Toddlers: 1-3 years Physical play should be an important focus. For outdoor play, choose ride-ons, wagons, balls, and sandbox accessories. For indoor play, choose chunky blocks. Large-piece puzzles and toys that allow a child to use excess energy and develop emerging muscle control are also good. At this stage, children like to imitate parents with play food, kitchen sets, housekeeping tools, ride-on cars, sport ssets, baby strollers, and musical instruments.

Preschool: 3-5 years Children in this group are fascinated with how and why things work. Construction sets, washable crayons and markers, paints, modeling clay, books, and simple board games encourage creativity. Introduce toys that inspire pretend play and allow children to imitate mom or dad to practice life skills. Examples include cash registers, toy telephones, make-believe town sets, doll houses, and furniture.

School Age: 5-9 years Encourage children to share and introduce toys that teach both team playing and independence. Consider toys that boost self esteem and allow children to use their personality and skills. Choose hobby sets, sports toys, computer software, problem-solving math toys, construction sets with detailed elements, and storybooks with valuable messages. Games and electronic toys are available to help children learn specific skills including counting, matching, and problem solving.

Preteen: School Age 9-12 years Acceptance from friends and self-esteem are very important to this age group. Toys also begin to seem less interesting to children of this age. Complex construction toys, board games, strategic puzzles, science toys, and activity kits are the best choices. Active and physical play should be an area of focus through team and group sports. Social and intellectual skills are refined through board, electronic, and card games.

Always supervise your child's play and play with your child often! Those memories will last a lifetime.

Twitter.com/toytips

Toy Tips — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 07:43:00 GMT

I am getting a little addicted to twitter. Maybe because it's all the rage (though I never fall for that) or maybe because I find interesting posts on new things to learn or maybe because I post my Daily Toy Tip with a new toy report card each morning very faithfully. My question to myself is .."How do I possibly have time for this?" I am a busy person already and with 2 kids, school drop off, school pick up, driving here, there and everywhere for this lesson and that, a fresh hot dinner on the table each night at 6 and a business to run, I must be crazy to add more to my day. Can anyone tell me if I am alone here or is twitter just a ton of fun? Twitter me... twitter.com/toytips,

TOY TIPS now on toywhimsy.com

Toy Tips — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 04:18:00 GMT

Each Wednesday, read Marianne Szymanski's independent blog report from the Toy Tips Research Institute on Amazon.com's Toy Whimsy Blog (toywhimsy.com) This week's post http://www.toywhimsy.com/2009/03/toy-tips-with-marianne-szymanski-comeback-toys.html.

Today's Your Birthday!

Toy Tips — Wed, 11 Mar 2009 19:33:00 GMT

2009 brings on anniversaries, birthday celebrations and the comeback of toys from our past.

But, WHY?

Simple.

Once a generation grows up and becomes parents themselves, marketers see this as an opportunity to reintroduce

fun childhood memories into parenting play. So, when Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles turn 25, dad not only wants to pull out his own and show Junior the fun he had with them, but buy Junior his own (because no way does Dad want his ruined) and the Ninja Turtle play goes on.

We all have heard that Barbie is 50 so that means grandma, mom and granddaughter can all play together and relive their Barbie moments and make new memories together.

And the reason these toys become and stay popular is because they are fun. You won't see a comeback of one toy that no one wanted and if you do, that does not "count" as a reintroduction in Toy Tips terms. We screen all the best to make sure they really were fun to start with.

Some new versions to look out for this year:

PJ Sparkles is 20

Super Soakers is 20

Candly Land is 60

Star Wars is 30

Anything under 20 years is not worth a mention because it has not hit that second generation of play yet but is worth watching.

I don't think you need to save every toy you own in hopes your toys or your children's toys become classics. Sadly, when a toy becomes a classic, it does not necessarily mean that it will be worth a pile of dollars. What a classic toy really is worth are the memories you preserve and those you share with your children, grandchildren or special child in your life.

For more information on more classic toys, check out the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY and while you are there,

visit my own Toy Tips exhibit of Toy Tips "TTT" tested toys, some classics and some you might find reintroduced in the next 20 years!

Follow me on twitter.com/toytips or sign up for our free daily toy tip on toytips.com.

Marianne Szymanski

TOY TIPS' TOY TRENDS 2009

Toy Tips — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 05:04:00 GMT

I have attended the American International Toy Fair since 1991 and each year, I comb through aisles and showrooms in search of creative playthings for the WHOLE child.
Manufacturers are eager to showcase their newest gizmo to retailers in hopes it makes it to a hot toy list that magazines (most of which accept toy advertisers)
hype to parents near holiday shopping time. But, after all this hoopla, parents just want to know the best toys for the best price that will make for the best play experience and their kids really happy.
While the toy industry seems to be tightening purse strings due to the economy, there are 3 trends that I think will be the focus of 2009.

----BETTER prices, BETTER quality and BETTER creative play value---

TTT (as toy tips is known-Toy tips TESTED and TRUSTED) will be focusing on the BBB all year long!

This is the year to focus on toy safety, value, cost and product durability. New toy safety laws will be put into place, retailers demanded lower prices so manufacturers are creating less expensive toys for the consumer and the trend toward green and organic toys is rising.

In a bad economy, basic toys always seem to rise to the top of popularity lists. LEGO has some new sets this year including licensed brands such as Star Wars and Toy Story and even a cell phone (a real one)! There is a new Disney Princess, Tiana, Dora the Explorer has become a middle school-er and and there are more child-themed movies so expect to see tons of licensed toys...in every toy category.

I have seen an increase of toys made with natural and organic materials, more collectables than ever before (My Little Pony, Batman, Star Wars, Bakugan, Transformers) and now the new Gogo's Crazy Bones.

There are lots of birthdays and anniversaries (Barbie turns 50, Candy Land is 60, Fisher Price Little People are 50 and PJ Sparkles is back for her 20th Anniversary).

Here is a sneak peek of some of the newest wares from the show abclocal.go.com/kgo/story?section=view_from_the_bay/consumer_finance&id=6673848

Follow me on twitter.com/toytips for daily toy tips reviews.

BE THAT PLAYFUL PARENT!

Toy Tips — Mon, 03 Nov 2008 08:02:00 GMT

Be THAT Playful Parent

Balance the toybox with some time with your kids and make your own playthings at the kitchen table. Whether it is a rainy day, birthday party, babysitter night, after school activity or family get-together, finding the time to play is usually not a problem.

These ideas are simple, inexpensive to make and you can use your own ingredients. The recipes came to us from teachers, parents, grandparents and of course, Toy Tips tested them with kids to make sure they are fun!

Zip Loc Bag Books

Staple together 5-7 Zip Loc Bags on the closed seam. Cover staples with electrical tape to avoid sharp points. Then pages can be filled with family photos, pictures cut from magazines, small items collected. Books can be changed and can be graded for any aged child-adding words, sentences, etc. Can have themes, the ABC's, the family trip, Holidays, favorite foods, etc.

Homemade Musical Instruments

Glue and staple together Chinet (or other heavy paper plate) filled with dried peas or beans. Decorate outside of plates any way you want.

Take 20 Oz soda bottles, fill with beans, pasta, rice etc. Attach dowel handle to soda cap either by screwing it on or hot glue, makes a great maraca.

You can make drums from oatmeal or other round cereal containers. Cover outsides with paper, and decorate. You can use large spoon to beat drums, or hands work fine too.

Spongy Soft Balls:

Cut one colored big sponge, in strips (do not cut through), leave the middle uncut. Tie the center with a strong rubber band and toss in the air or in the water.

Sidewalk Paint:

You'll need 1 1/4 cup cornstarch, 1 1/4 cup water, and 10 drops of food color. Mix ingredients together and place paint in a spray bottle

Sidewalk Chalk

Take 2/3 cup plaster-of-paris, 2 tbs powdered tempura paint, and 6 tbs of water. Mix together and form into balls or into shapes with molds or plastic cookie cutters. (must work quickly)

Yukky Mukky Gukky

Mixture #1: 2 cups Elmer glue 2 cups of h20 21 drops of Food coloring Mix in bowl #1.

Mixture #2: 8 tsp. Laundry detergent (powder) 2 2/3 cups water Mix in bowl #2

Slowly pour mixture in bowl #1 into mixture of bowl #2 (DO not mix or stir) Lift solution 1 out of Watch solid turn to liquid and liquid turn to solid right in your hands.. Offers sensory and tactile development and texture identification. Store in a zip loc bag or tupperware .

Putty:

You'll need 4 tbs. Elmer's glue 5 drops of food color. Slowly... add 2 tbs. of liquid starch. Let stand and mix in hands. Store in a zip loc bag.

Lip Gloss

Take 4 tbsp. shortening and 2 tbs. dry kool aid mix. Mix together and decorate in small containers (Danimals yogurt containers work great)

Fossils

You'll need 1 cup flour, 1 cup used coffee grounds, 1/2 cup salt, 1/4 cup sand, and 3/4 cup water. Mix and slowly add water. Knead until it has the consistency of bread dough. Break off a piece and roll into the size of a baseball. Make a hole and hide wrapped candy. Seal with extra dough. Let air dry for 3 days or until hard. You can also bake in an oven for 20 minutes to dry. Break open when fully dry.

Smelly Modeling Dough

Gather 1cup flour, 1/2 cup salt, 1 pkg unsweetened Koolaid, 3 Tbl. vegetable oil, and 1/2 cup hot water. Combine dry ingredients. Add oil and hot water. Mix with hands. Add extra flour or water to reach consistency of bread dough. Have fun and enjoy the smell! Dough is non toxic, but very salty if eaten. Will keep in plastic bag for several weeks.

Melted Crayons

Recycle old crayons. Peel off the paper and have children mix colors in an non-stick muffin pan. Cook at 350 degrees for 4-5 minutes until melted. Let fully cool before using.

Secrets of a well-made toy

Toy Tips — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 05:01:00 GMT

Did you ever buy a toy that falls apart easily? The well-engineered toy is a gem amongst the toybox. Finding durable toys that can last for generations takes a little bit of knowledge, a little bit of research and a little bit of luck. Before your holiday toy shopping begins, plan ahead.

You'll find some of the most basic toys are going from the plain design, ex: dolls, heavy solid trucks, slinky's (which contain no electronics) to interactive designs which contain electronic components such as infrared technology, micro-processors, sensors, optics, LED's etc. These devices are delicate and prone to shock. They must be encased in a firm, well-designed outer shell which will protect the toy.

It's better to splurge on quality, a toy is only useful when it is used

Here are a few "toy tips" to take to the toy store:

-For audible toys, speakers should be large enough to provide intelligible output.

-Tilt switches indicate if a toy is laying down or standing up (think a robot toy that walks). Many are made with mercury. Be aware that in the event of breakage, mercury could be exposed and possibly ingested by the child and this could be fatal.

-Video screens should be color not black and white for better resolution.

-Many battery compartments require a manual use of a small jewelers screwdriver (#0 or #1) to open the battery compartment for battery insertion and replacement. Be sure to have one of those on hand- you will need it often. If you don't replace batteries, they can corrode. If a battery-operated toy is not in constant use, it's best to keep the batteries out and put them in as needed. Batteries also contain mercury so if one leaks and is ingested by the child, this can be very dangerous.

Avoid toys made with magnets if there is any possibility a child may put them in their mouth, regardless of age. Two or more magnets ingested inside the digestive track is fatal.

And...remember to play with your kids with all your new finds!