There comes a day when your little one will take your fun away.
(Yes, I know the above statement can be in reference to one of the many time-draining, life-zapping scenarios that children throw at us. Please, don’t let me get started.)
However, in this particular instance, I’m talking about the day that your child picks out a toy for him/herself. At some point, he’ll point to it on a shelf, in a magazine, on the television, etc… and will ask, “Please, can I have this?” And, all those times that you visited your local toy store, carefully picked out a fun, educational toy and watched the joy spread across his face as you presented it… will be nothing but a distant memory. Because now he knows exactly what he wants and wants ONLY that one particular toy – and does not suffer fools gladly.
I was this child. For the longest time, I was content to play with almost anything I received, until I discovered Barbie dolls. Sure, building blocks and water colour paints were fun, but at the tender age of four, I wanted a Golden Dream Barbie. Badly.
I’m not quite sure if Golden Dream Barbie was age appropriate at the time I lusted after her; I’m not even sure what my parents thought of my incessant pleading and begging for a doll that frankly, was quite gaudy compared to the more illustrious Peaches ‘n Cream (which would eventually turn out to be my favourite) and Magic Moves (which I’d later campaign for too). But from that moment on, I became the child that wanted to pick out her own toys, and carefully prepared Christmas and birthday wish lists that were to be followed to a tee.
(My parents threw in the towel surprisingly quickly and presented me with cash at every occasion from there on in. Totally took their fun away, however, #winning)
I suppose the question is – who drives the purchase of toys in your household? Do you leave it up to your children to decide, or do you stick to your instincts and buy the toys that you think will be the most beneficial to them? (Maybe it’s a little of both.) However, if you do decide to take pointers from your kids, at what age do you let them influence – or dictate – your purchase decisions?
These are all burning questions to me, as Ryder has recently started asking for specific toys, and actually refuses all other items that do not fit into his master plan. On one hand, it’s great to have him know what he likes, but on the other, I feel he’s missing out on so many great learning opportunities through play. (Thankfully his little brother is interested in practically everything – it makes up for having one “picky player”!)
For those who are still primarily the decision maker for toy purchases, I’m pleased to share a great, new resource that will help parents and make their lives easier:
The Joy of Learning Playtime Guide identifies all the ways a child will develop their skills through playing with any particular Fisher-Price toy. This guide includes 12 Elements of Enrichment, each under one of the major pillars – Physical, Cognitive or Social – that are critical in each child’s development.
In 2013 and beyond, these icons will be displayed on each product’s packaging, so that moms can fully-understand how that product can aid the individual areas of growth for their child. For parents looking to enhance a child’s skill – just like Golden Dream Barbie strengthened my self-expression and confidence – I think this guide is an incredibly useful tool.
Tell me: Who/what influences you most when purchasing toys?
I am a Fisher-Price Play Ambassador and I receive special perks as part of my affiliation with this group. The opinions on this blog are my own.
Although the fun has been sucked out of it for me, I believe it is dependent upon age. When a child is old enough to ask for what they want and it is an appropriate toy then I don’t see the problem. Better for them to be happy. What I mean by an appropriate toy is that when I was younger, there was a pregnant Barbie that was out. It had a tummy that turned open and a baby was in there. My mom bought it for me but I remember my grandmother freaking out about it. I didn’t understand what all the hoopla was about.
I am seriously spending some time tonight Googling that pregnant Barbie, Tania :) Great tips and insight!
My older son definitely picks out his own toys as I can not even begin to understand the stuff he now likes. Beyblades and all their different attributes are beyond me..so I need to know what he likes. I can still pick out books that he likes though. My daughter I can still pick stuff but she is beginning to show interest in certain things, Barbies, My little ponies and Dora for sure!
And OMG, I had totally forgotten about Peaches and Cream Barbie but I remember vividly now wanting one (and not getting it either).
Good news Tara, you can buy Peaches ‘n Cream Barbie on eBay for $300 (OMG!!!)
Love the feedback and yes, I too am sure I won’t even understand what my boys are into in a few years!
My daughter’s 24th birthday was September 8th, last Saturday.
I loved her ‘lists’ when she was growing up…some of them were quite funny and sweet. She now realizes that I have a budget as most Mums and when I asked her what she wanted, her response was, “I don’t need anything Mum…you don’t have to spend any money on me”.
I love those answers because it makes me feel that she appreciates and understands my situation. Any gift that she has ever received, she has loved or at least appeared to love weather it was from me or another family member.
I have included her list for this year…yes, I finally did receive one via email…and I must admit that I loved this one too…just different toys really….Below is her email to me.
Hey Mum, I know you asked me what I wanted for my birthday. I don’t really need anything, or ever expect anything. But to give you an idea I made a list..
Art Supplies:
· Acrylic brush set
· Drawing/sketch pad
· Gesso boards
· Mixed board
· Sketch/drawing pencils
· Charcoal sticks
· Graphite pencils
· Drawing pens
· Studio easel
(Best art stores are Island Blue or Opus Art)
A book on Event/Fundraising Organization & Planning (I am trying to host a fundraiser for Unicef to take place next summer)
“Modern Man in Search of a Soul” book by Carl Jung (I have recently become very interested in his theories)
Gift certificate to Dynamite/Jacob (I need more work clothes)
Love it. Thank you so much for sharing, Teresa! Such a sweet list – you’ve got a selfless, loving daughter!
Thank you Lena :) Sara moved out of our flat on June 1st of this year so missing her very much.
I actually think I remember you leaving a heartwarming comment on my “Sleepless in the Suburbs” post remembering how she’d crawl into bed too – you must really miss her :(
When my son was smaller we chose his gifts based on general interests and skills we wanted him to practice (small motor and imagination – lego), physical activity with Dad time (bike, skates etc). Now that he’s in gr.4 he tells what he wants by giving us a wish list that we can pick through. So although he may want the expensive Ho scale train he’s still very happy to get the RC car thats more in our budget.
I love the idea of using his wish list but still having control over the ultimate purchase. Good for you, Lisa!
My son is at the age now (8) he really likes electronics/Wii/Nintendo DS. But there comes a fine line, when the ask is more like a demand. I firmly believe we must teach our kids the value of money, and working hard and getting the reward. I don’t want to instill in him this sense of ENTITLEMENT that exists with more youths, at times mine included. He shows me different trendy thing on line – then I hem and haw…..wait to Christmas. lOl
I love that you’ve instilled such great values in him, Eva. You’re absolutely right – kids NEED to know the value of money and working hard. Your son has a wonderful mother!
My son, 11yr old with down syndrome, has just recently started picking out his own toys from the sears wish book… and every time he sees something on tv that he likes he is sure to let me know. He never did this before so this is a big step for him with making decisions. My daughter on the other hand… she just wants EVERYTHING! lol Lord help me… and my wallet!
Laurie, what a heartwarming story – thank you so much for sharing! I love the big step in making his own toy decisions – how can you say no? :)
Interesting post. Kids definitely know what they like. But often if they like books or arts and crafts it’s easy to shop for them.
I have to say my kids too, as long as it is not too expensive and age appropriate they pretty much pick their own