Tag Archives: toys

Online Shopping – Christmas Sanity

Online Shopping – Christmas Sanity

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Christmas is just around the corner, and for those of you who just hate fighting through the crowds at the shopping malls, like me, why not shop online? Ok, so we’re an online store, so you would think we’re trying to promote our store. Well, kind of, but seriously, I still prefer shopping online. For instance I went looking for my daughters’ gifts at the shopping mall the other day. Boy have I never felt frustrated shopping before! I usually LOVE shopping. But, when it comes to knowing or seeing an ad for the thing advertised, and then heading there NOT finding it, now, that’s a big annoyance! Not only was I wasting time that could be spent doing other things, but it was also tiring and a waste of petrol I say. I was actually looking for a particular toy – the Sylvanian Family collection. It was advertised that they would be at Target. No, not even a stand. So I got home and thought, why don’t I try the internet? Sure enough, there were plenty and even one site dedicated to selling just that collection – www.sylvaniancity.com! They are based in NSW and I thought, I would try buying a small amount to see how reliable they were. 3 days later, my package arrived – in mint condition! It was so easy. No hassle, no crowds, all in the convenience of my own home.  I also got to “window shop” so to speak at the different online stores that had the collection and compare prices. So, if you want to save some time then I strongly suggest shopping online for things that you don’t need to try on. Make sure they are a secure site, and have contact details that you can actually reach should you need your queries answered quickly.

How old is too old for imaginative play?

How old is too old for imaginative play?

Imaginative play to me is an essential part of a child’s development. It encourages the child’s creativity, especially when it comes to using the different toys and equipment as props that we adults would sometimes never think of! It also developes a child’s sense of imagination, when they create different “worlds” or scenarios with their toys and props. Imaginative play can start at a very young age, but when should they stop or should they even stop at all?

My children love imaginative play, ok, so they LOVE toys, can’t get enough of them. The eldest will turn 8 early next year and the second one is 6. I don’t mind them getting (birthday presents from me) or buying (with their pocket money) toys like dolls, littlest pet shop, etc. To me, it encourages their imagination in forming the different worlds, and I also have a view of how they view the world too, through the language they use. I have a few family members however who have a varying view on this. To them, because the girls are in primary school, they should be playing “teachers”, doing writing, playing computer games and these imaginative play are considered childish. Of course being the person I am – I ignore those comments. They are after all my children and under MY care. But, what do you think? Should there be a limit to imaginative play? And this includes dressing up, and playing pretend too. What are your views? Share your thoughts with us.