the joys of toys: tips from a toy expert

Do you recall what it felt like to play with your favorite toys? Do you remember how they sparked your imagination and took you on adventures to faraway lands?

As Berkeley, CA. psychologist, author and toy scholar Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D. (http://www.drtoy.com/) says, "The toys a child plays with can unlock the door to learning, and each new experience helps to turn the key. How much did we learn through our play? How much can your child learn? You'll be surprised."

Dr. Auerbach has made a life's work of evaluating toys for their play and learning quotients and of writing about how toys can help children learn. Along with her encyclopedic Web site that rates thousands of children's toys for their play quotient and educational benefits, Dr. Toy is also the author of "Dr. Toy's Smart Play/Smart Toys: How to Raise a Child with a High P.Q.(Play Quotient)." This book supplies information on toys from infancy to older childhood, along with a list of 166 great ideas of ways to have fun with your children.

So what makes a good toy? Every child has different interests, different learning styles and different educational needs. Here are some guidelines from Dr. Toy to help you on your way:

Toys are an important part of every child's life. It is a wonderful feeling to give the right toy. Selecting one that's a hit is a challenge. With more than 300,000 toys and children's products, choices can be overwhelming. Keep these points in mind before you buy any gift for your child. Think about your child's age, skills, needs, and specific interests. Select the toy or other product that fits your child now. Ask: Can my child benefit from this product? Will it help him learn a skill? Will she enjoy it and have fun? What abilities does he or she need to make the most of the toy?

Only select toys that balance your child's activities. A good variety of toys provide activity, creativity, and learning. Activity toys develop coordination and improve small and large motor skills and balance. Begin with balls and beanbags; add a trike, bike, and skates. Jump ropes, HULA HOOPs, and kites are amusing and good for exercise. Check whether your child is ready for the activity and knows the safety rules.

Creativity toys stimulate self-expression. The child can draw pictures with crayons, finger-paints, and watercolors. Put your child's pictures up on a wall so others can admire his or her artwork. Your child will find clay and PLAY-DOH fun. Craft sets provide a lot of play value and learning. Children learn to follow directions and a sequence of activities.

Learning takes place in many ways. Books, tapes, software, CDs, puzzles, and board games all contribute. The child should read books and use software. Take time to read stories together. Talk about programs watched on TV.

In conclusion, Dr. Toy suggests to regularly play games and do puzzles. "Family Time" will be more fun if you find new things to do and new products to play with, and balance activities. The right toy at the right time can make a big difference.