Finding the toys that will stand test of time

How to balance buying novelty items with ones that offer repeated play - long after the Christmas tree has come down. By LISA SALMON

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IT’S magical to see the delight on children’s faces as they open their presents on Christmas Day.

But often that delight is short-lived as they move on to the next gift, and their new toy is discarded under the tree, never to be played with again.

At a time when budgets are stretched, it can be a huge anticlimax for parents to see a toy forgotten about by Boxing Day.

“As a gift giver, there's nothing more disappointing than giving a present that goes from hero to zero in a day - but sometimes it's hard to escape, especially if it’s at the top of their wish list,’ says toyologist Peter Jenkinson.

And psychologist and play expert Dr Amanda Gummer, founder of the Good Play Guide, which helps parents find good toys, says although the abandonment of ‘must-have’ presents can be disappointing, it doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have been bought in the first place.

“If a child has longed for a particular character or fad item, the short-term enjoyment still has value,’ she points out. “Play isn’t only about longevity, it’s about joy, belonging and self-expression. A balance helps.”

And Dr Salim Hashmi, a senior lecturer in psychology (education) at King’s College London who studies children’s play, adds: “Every child is unique, and the key to finding the right toy is by following their interest.”

So how can parents make sure most of their kids’ Christmas toys are played with long after the big day? Here’s what Dr Gummer and Peter advise...

Look for open-ended play value

Parents should seek toys that invite children to actually do something, rather than simply watch something happen, explains Dr Gummer.

“Experts often emphasise open-ended play value - toys that can be used in multiple ways, at different ages, and that grow with a child’s abilities,’ she says.