Classic Toys Never Go
Out of Style—Part 1
by Stevanne Auerbach, Ph.D.,
(Dr. Toy)
You can
count on classic toys. These are the long lasting toys
that “keep on playing” long
after the batteries and latest fads are gone. Where
do you turn for a selection that provides a timeless,
fun experience that will hold your child's interest?
It's time to turn back the clock! Look for toys that
have remained valued playthings since they were first
introduced ten or more years ago. These are the lasting
favorites of all children who have played with them.
The selections of our Best Classic Products are included
here and in the next issues.
Briarpatch I Spy Memory Game $19.99
4--10 yrs. 800-232-7427 www.briarpatch.com
This
card game is based on the popular “I
Spy” book by Walter Wick and Jane Marzollo
celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2002. This game
continues to be popular for each generation that
rediscovers the fun of rhyming riddles. The instructions
are included and now there are extra “I Spy” cards.
You can also obtain variations of the game in “I
Spy” Bingo and “I Spy” Travel edition.
DaMert
Triazzle—Coral Reef $8.00
8-12 yrs. 800-356-0474 www.damert.com
Each Triazzle has graphic elements that
cross over its three edges onto the adjacent pieces
that contain the entire puzzle. The pieces vary from
nine to twenty four pieces. The object is simple
to assemble with all the images matching, but it
can be a difficult challenge. The puzzles can be
assembled down to the last one or two pieces and
be totally incorrect forcing the player to begin
again. You remove the pieces from the game board
and mix them up but then replace them so that each
picture matches. Once you have taken it apart it
is not easy to put them back together again in exactly
the same way but once you do you will be rewarded
with the challenge of getting them back in place
again. The interesting information on the back of
the puzzle itself calls attention to the different
types of fish that are part of the picture.
Flexible Flyer Play Time $79.99 2--10 yrs. 800-521-6233 www.flexible-flyer.com
Playtime is a traditional playset that
children have enjoyed for many years. This playset
is totally perfect for outdoor play. Children will
become more physically active playing with the swings,
slide, and seesaw. It is easy to set up and strong
and has all the features children love. The seesaw
is well-balanced and durable. For over 100 years
the company has provided quality, durability, and
fun for children.
Gamewright Mummy Rummy $9.99 8--12
yrs. 800-638-7568 www.gamewright.com
Mummy Rummy is a great game that players
dig and sift in search of cards that complete pictures
of ancient Egyptian treasures. Certain cards have
special powers that can transform pictures and can
jump from one player to another. The contents of
the box include 30 double-image cards, 15 single-image
cards, instructions and treasure guides. Children
can play together with two to five players. Each
game is about 30 minutes. Games like this help children
to learn to take turns, be patient, socialize with
friends and family and learn other skills of observation
and dexterity.#
Stevanne
Auerbach, PhD., Director of the Institute of
Childhood Resources, writes Dr. Toy's Guide (www.drtoy.com)
and is author of new book Smart Play/Smart Toys:
How to Raise a Child with a High P.Q. (Play Quotient)
Educational Insights.