| There is a chore in my home that brings out the | | | | for ages 18 months to 3 years, only to find that the |
| procrastinator in me. This particular chore is so big and | | | | pieces were very difficult to place, and my son |
| so difficult, that I create new tasks just to avoid | | | | became upset every time he played with the puzzle. |
| starting the dreaded job. What could be so bad: My | | | | Some suggestions for Toddler and Preschool Toys |
| toddler's bedroom - a.k.a. fighting the battle of 'too | | | | - Puppets |
| many toys!' | | | | - Activity tables/centers |
| The problem doesn't arrive from a lack of organization | | | | - Sorting boxes |
| or space to put things, but from just too many toys in | | | | - Snap together Blocks - Leggos |
| the first place. His room, when tidy, looks like a little toy | | | | - Puzzles - up to 5 wooden pieces |
| store gone mad. My husband built custom shelving just | | | | - Figures for dollhouse, farm, etc. |
| for the toys and books, with varying shelf sizes to | | | | - Dress up clothes |
| accommodate different types of toys and sizes of | | | | - Trucks and wagons to haul things |
| books. However, when I take a close look at the | | | | - Housekeeping and shopping toys |
| contents, it's obvious that there's lots of 'stuff', but little | | | | - Sewing cards |
| thought went into most of it. | | | | - Buttoning, zipping, snapping dolls or boards |
| How should you select and organize your child's toys? | | | | - Preschool age games like Memory and Candy land |
| Choosing quality kids' toys, selected by their | | | | etc. |
| developmental stage and abilities, is the first step. Most | | | | Most importantly, choose toys that stimulate your |
| toys have a recommended age on the package to let | | | | child's mind and that create learning experiences. |
| you know the appropriate age group. Take cues from | | | | Provide an adequate amount of toys for your child. |
| you own child to guide you in whether he is ready for | | | | Don't do as I have and overwhelm your child with too |
| a certain toy. | | | | much 'stuff' causing both of you to become frustrated. |
| Make sure that the toys you're buying actually "do" | | | | As we all know, most little kids have a more fun |
| what they are supposed to. If puzzle pieces aren't cut | | | | playing with the box the toy came in while the new toy |
| correctly, your child will get angry and frustrated when | | | | sits idly on the floor. Now it's time for me to stop |
| they play with it. I've recently made the mistake of | | | | procrastinating and fight the battle of 'too many toys. |
| buying a puzzle that was supposed to be appropriate | | | | |