April 16, 1999 Dr. Toy really appreciates classic toys. I feel certain you too share in the good feeling of nostalgia and enjoyment that is connected to these special products. Have you noticed that many of the toys that you played with as a child are still available now to share with your children? These classics have lasted over time. They continue to prove their value and will delight your child. The joy of sharing a toy with your child that you played with, is a special treat. Just that is a classic toy? A classic toy is many things, but there are some aspects to these toys that remain so perfect over time:
"New" classics Here are some terrific toys that fit the criteria for classics:
Look around Watch for these other great classic toys that have been around since you were a kid. Most of them are found in the small toy section in your grocery store. In fact, you may already have some of these in your attic:
The care and feeding of your classics Encourage your child to learn more about toys by visiting your public library and reading information about them. Sometimes a book about the history of dolls or trains can fascinate for hours. Help you children learn to care for their toys so that they understand they are special and must be treated well. Have a special place for them and set aside a time for pick-up. These are wonderful products to introduce to your child when they best fit their age and readiness. You'll often find that the adult train enthusiast began as a child setting up the layout for his or her first train. Or, the avid doll collector started learning more about dolls when given a special one from a grandmother. Children are influenced by these early experiences and will grow to enjoy lifetime hobbies if given the opportunity. Watch for more about classic toys in my new book, Dr. Toy's Smart Play: How to Raise a Child with a High P. Q. (Play Quotient). About the Author Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D., known as Dr. Toy, has been writing, speaking, and consulting about toys and children's products, child development and parenting for more than 30 years. In 1987, she founded the world's first interactive toy museum, The San Francisco International Toy Museum. Dr. Auerbach, has written many books and articles for parents and professionals. Her latest book, "Dr. Toy's Smart Play: How to Raise a with a High P.Q.(Play Quotient)" by St. Martin's Press, focuses on the importance of play from baby to older children, and assists adults in understanding and fostering play experiences. Dr. Toy evaluates and reports on toys and children's products for Dr. Toy's Guide, the award winning magazine-format website (drtoy.com) and for her weekly syndicated column, "Dr. Toy," distributed by King Feature's Syndicate to 1,500 newspapers throughout the U.S. and Canada. Contact: Dr. Toy, 268 Bush St., San Francisco, CA. 94104 or her. Feedback Want to comment on this article? |