Eventually a child will have more toys than she can use, or more than there is room for. When this happens, she may drift from one toy to another for only brief and superficial play.
This is a sign that it is time to put some of the toys away for a while, leaving only current favorites available.
With a more limited selection, a child will learn to be resourceful and inventive in looking for new ways to play with each toy.
From time to time, switch toys from storage to playroom for an ever-changing variety.
A rainy day is a good time to exchange "old" toys for "new" ones.
If the child is old enough, let her help decide which toys to put away and which to bring out.
These periodic switches offer a good opportunity to examine the toys. If parts are missing, write to the manufacturer for replacements.
If repairs are needed, make them. If the toy is damaged beyond repair, discard it or salvage whatever may be reusable.
A "junk" box of old toy parts can be a treasure chest to an older child who likes to tinker with construction projects.
Be mindful of safety issues and dispose of parts that are broken or which have sharp edges or corners that could cut small hands.
Never throw away a usable toy, even though you think your child has surely outgrown it. Children play with toys in different ways at different ages. A feature that might not have been evident originally may offer pleasure a year or two later.
A child who is sick in bed or recovering from an illness often prefers a less challenging toy, one she played with earlier. And when a youngster isn't feeling good, it's always a pleasure to see an old, familiar toy.
In addition, it's always good to have a selection of toys for younger children, whether visitors to your home or your own children.
Save the good toys that your children particularly like. They may turn out to be your grandchildren's treasures!
Debbie Wilburn is County Agent/Family and Consumer Science Agent with the Hall (770)535-8290 and the Forsyth (770)887-2418 County Extension Service.
Tuesday
August 5th, 2025
5:04AM
