- my iParenting

- quick clicks
- preschoolers today articles
- preschoolers today q&a
- children today articles
- children today q&a
- message boards
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.

The Bottom of the Toy Box
Ideas for Toys With Staying Power
By Donna Smith
"Everyone I know loves Legos," says Sandy. "From the big toddler-size blocks to the little ones that hurt your feet when you step on them."
Will Lego and Tinkertoys ever go out of style? Probably not. Kids love constructing all sorts of things with these brightly-colored blocks. They make great gifts because they can be added to over the years. From basic sets to elaborate zoos, police stations, fire stations, beauty shops and horse stables, you should be able to find a set to match any child's interests.
"I have seven children," says Rebecca. "My oldest children really love Legos. I enjoy Legos because they encourage my children to work with their hands and to be inventive and creative." So, instead of giving the child a robot, give him a set of Legos or Tinkertoys to make a robot. Find a colorful plastic container for storing them, then wrap together for a great gift.
"My daughter uses all her brother's old baby clothes to dress her animals up in," says Tammy. "She loves to display them all over her bed. Sometimes I can't even find her in bed to kiss her goodnight!"


