This 680-word article gives parents tips for buying toys. This piece covers several aspects of toy shopping. Toy recalls, assembling toys that come in pieces, battery life, and age-appropriate toys are just a few of the subjects covered.

EXCERPT:

Talk with other parents about the toys that are on your shopping list. You can search Internet review sites or talk to other parents you know: either way, you’ll probably learn valuable information about the toys. This is an easy way to help you decide if the toy in question is appropriate, if it will stand up to regular play and even where you can find the best deal, among other things.

Noisemaking toys – such as musical instruments and other electronics – should include a volume control or headphone jack. Otherwise, you’ll be insane before the first day is over. You can also establish boundaries, acceptable practice hours, and other rules to maintain your sanity.

If you’re shopping for video games, check the parental rating on the back of the case. This rating system helps you decide if that title is really appropriate for your child. You can also speak with other parents or read video-game magazines and Web sites for more detailed information about each title.

Look for toys that are fun but educational at the same time. Magnetic toys, for example, help children learn without being boring. The same is true of coloring books and building blocks.

Toys that encourage reading are wonderful ideas, but they can’t replace the time that you spend reading aloud to your child. This is true of any other toy as well. Part of the fun is in the time that you spend playing with your child.

Search the Internet and look at the toy store for recall and other safety information. You need to be up-to-date on the latest data before you buy a toy that could be on the recall list. This is particularly important right now, when it seems like every other day brings news of another toy recall.

If you buy something that requires assembly, consider having the staff at the store put the toy together for you. When toys – especially those with wheels, like bicycles or scooters – aren’t put together correctly, they can cause serious injuries. Always double-check the work, even if you do the assembly yourself.

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