If your parents are like mine, they’ve held on to just about every toy you had as a child—whether to remember the days when you were younger, or to have so you can pass them down to their grandchildren one day. But how can you tell if that toy is safe or appropriate for your […]
Toys at Grandma’s House Read More »
How many times have you heard a father tell a son, “No you can’t have a doll, boys don’t play with dolls!” In my house, I used to hear that a lot. My oldest is turning twelve next month and he grew up knowing that boys play with trucks and girls play with dolls. End
Why Can’t Boys Play with Dolls Read More »
There are many times when a toy will specifically say for ages 8 & up and a younger child will ask for it. I’m guilty of letting my kids play with things geared for older kids, I also let them play with things that they are considered too old for. I feel the ages are
Age Recommendations on Toys, Do you pay attention? Read More »
Children’s worlds—and the toy and products industries—always reflect the adult world. I’ve long said that if one really wants to understand adult perceptions and values, one need only look at what is being reflected in toys, entertainment and lifestyles targeted to children. It’s not that complex. Kids want to be grown up, and they want
Debunking “The War on Childhood” Read More »
My daughter’s First Grade class is learning about the neighborhood we live in via short field trips to local businesses and public spaces. Each of these excursions requires several chaperones. A 1:3 grown up to kid ratio, in fact. So my husband and I signed up: He got a scavenger hunt in the park; I
To Chaperone, or Not to Chaperone Read More »
I laughed out loud when I read the piece in the New York Times about the movement to “restore play.”
Why Parents Should Heed The “Restore Play” Movement Read More »
I’ve sat through three parent sessions this week at my daughter’s school that dealt with “summer brain drain” and how to keep kids from losing 30% of what teachers worked hard all year to cram into their little brains. And while some of the information was useful, very little of it took into account that kids actually need and deserve some time off. I was also struck by “fun activity” recommendations they offered parents for keeping kids’ minds engaged all summer. I’m pretty sure that my daughter would not, in fact, enjoy me dumping her LEGOs all over the floor so that she can count them as she cleans them up.
Summer Brain Drain Read More »
As parents we hope to teach our kids the basics – colors, shapes, numbers – while still having fun and spending quality time together. Fortunately the toy industry has risen to the challenge by creating new and exciting learning games each year while continuing to update the classics. But after awhile, even the child who is Candyland’s biggest fan may want a break from playing the same game in the same way. Rather than run out and by a new product, save time and money by reinventing the way you use the games that are already in your home.
Toys, Tots, Pets & More: Resourceful Game Playing Read More »
After a long New York winter it’s fantastic to finally go outside and enjoy some nice 70 degree sunshine for a change. I love spring. The weather is ideal and the bugs haven’t made their way out yet. It’s the best time to play outside with my boy.
Spring Weather and Outdoor Toys Read More »
