This time of year is a great time to give gifts to children, so shop with holiday toy safety in mind. The following tips will have you giving gifts that are both fun and safe.
China-free
Shopping
Consumers are starting a trend that is
called China-Free shopping,
where consumers look at toy packages to see where they were manufactured. If
the toys were made in China, the customer will not buy them. Instead, consumers
are opting for toys that are made in the United States, Canada or other
countries that follow strict guidelines regarding the manufacturing of toys.
This is in response to the massive toy recalls that occurred in 2007 due to lead paint found on many toddler and baby toys. Numerous toys that were manufactured in China were found to have toxic lead levels in the paint above those allowed by the U.S. federal Lead Paint Standard. Many toy companies were affected, though Mattel suffered the most losses. While lead cannot be absorbed through the skin, it can be ingested when children put toys in their mouths.
Another popular toy, Aqua Dots, was recalled because rohypnol or the date rape drug was found on the plastic beads. When children put them in their mouths they succumbed to the drug's effects. Two children were reported as becoming comatose after ingesting the beads. The Chinese subcontractor is being investigated as to why they replaced the glue component of the beads with this drug.Toy Recalls
Toy
Recalls
Many retail stores post toy recalls in
their stores. These recalls are often posted in the customer service areas,
though many stores also post them in toy departments as well. If you would like
to check out toy recalls on gifts you may have already purchased, these Web
sites will provide you with recall information:
RC2 Corporation - Recalled Thomas and Friends and Britain's Knights of the Sword toys
Holiday Toy Safety Tips
It can be difficult to say no to children
who are clamoring for toys that may end up on a recall list. However, you can
shop for toys for children using the following holiday toy safety tips:
Purchase toys that are age appropriate. Don't buy toys that toddlers can put in their mouth unless it was specifically made for toddlers. Remember, babies and toddlers always explore toys by putting them in their mouths.
Be careful of purchasing toys that have small parts -- they can pose a choking hazard. If you have babies and toddlers in your home, always be aware that a small child can put anything and everything in their mouth.
Shop for toys that are made of colored plastic instead of painted plastic. The majority of recent recalls are for toys that have been painted over plastic.
While many wooden toys are generally considered safe for kids, several recalled toys were painted. Check to make sure the toys were made in the United States so that they meet the federal Lead Paint Standard.
It may be difficult to find toys your children want this holiday season, but luckily there are still many toy manufacturers that are located within the United States or in surrounding countries that haven't violated federal standards. Check the recall lists before you shop and read packages carefully before you buy any toys. Careful shopping now will help you avoid buying toys on the growing list of recalls this holiday season.
Main Features • Magnetic levitation toy, attract kids' interest to play • Educational toys, let children know about the earth • The globe's characters are clear, wear-resistant and not faded • Built-in LED lights, energy saving and environmental protection • With a unique lighting process, the lights are bright and soft • The base is made of ABS original material, the surface of the shell is matte, the texture is delicate and pure, not slippery
Parameter: • Product size: length 175mm, high 173mm, thick 50mm • Sphere size: diameter 85mm • Power consumption: 2.0W
Package weight: 0.585 kg Package size: 20.00 x 20.00 x 10.00 cm / 7.87 x 7.87 x 3.94 inches
Package Contents: 1 x Base, 1 x Globe, 1 x Power Adapter, 1 x English Instruction Manual
HT- 01 Kids Electronic Smart Space Dancing Robot with Music LED Light
Details
Description: This is an intelligent robot which is capable of creating a lot of fun for your little kids. As you turn on the switch, the robot will dance with the dynamic music. Interestingly, its arms can swing and foot can move left and right. What's more, with colorful light effect, it will be cool to play it in the dark. It really a wonderful birthday gift. Your kids will love it very much.
Features: - Major function: walk, dance, arm-swing - The robot can dance with dynamic music - With colorful LED light, appealing to your kids - High-quality and environmentally-friendly ABS material, durable to play - Powered by 3pcs AA batteries (not included) - Best gift for your kids. A good companion for them - Suitable age: above 3 years old
Age Range: > 3 years old Battery: 3pcs AA batteries Features: Battery Operated,Flashing,Sounding
Package weight: 0.433 kg Package Size(L x W x H): 20.00 x 8.50 x 22.00 cm / 7.87 x 3.35 x 8.66 inches
Package Contents: 1 x RobotProduct Safety Disclaimer: We do not accept any responsibility or liability for misuse of this or any other product. All our products are extensively tested to comply with rigorous and strict QC standards. For certain products (e.g. toys, knives, etc.), we recommend proper supervision as we cannot be held liable for misuse or accidents.Small Parts Disclaimer: These toys contain small parts, not for children under 3 years in case of swallowing or choking . We do not accept any responsibility or liability for misuse of this or any other product.
As your children get older, they'll likely outgrow or become bored with many toys that are in perfectly good condition. Instead of throwing them away or leaving them in your closets to take up space and gather dust, consider sharing them with organizations that can help get them into the hands of youngsters who will greatly appreciate them and put them to good use.
Where
to Donate Used Toys
Many
types of nonprofit organizations accept donations of toys. Some charitable
groups sell donated toys, providing support for a good cause while also helping
many families afford toys for their children that they would not otherwise be
able to purchase. Others distribute the toys they receive directly to
underprivileged youngsters. Still others make the toys available for children
who utilize their services, providing entertainment during difficult times.
There are many places to consider when looking to donate used toys.
Thrift Shops
Charitable groups such as Goodwill, the Salvation Army, and others accept donations of all types of secondhand items, including toys, for resale in thrift shops. Most of these types of shops take donations during their standard hours of operation, as well as via drop boxes placed in various areas within the communities they serve.
Shelters
If your
community has a shelter for domestic violence survivors or a homeless shelter
that accepts families, consider sharing toys that your child no longer wants or
needs with the organization. These types of shelters operate on shoestring
budgets and rely heavily on donations. Toys can be an important part of the
healing process for children in this difficult situation.
Church Day Care Centers
Many churches operate nonprofit day care
and mom's day out programs. Many of them accept donations of toys that are
appropriate for the age group of youngsters who participate in their programs.
Libraries
It's
likely you think of the library as simply a place to donate books, but many
also have lending programs for toys, especially for younger children. It's
worth the time it takes to make a call to your local branch.
Art Schools
If
you'd like your toys to take on a new life, consider donating them to young
artists. Many want bright and colorful items to use to enhance their projects.
Who knows? Your old toys may end up in a masterpiece someday.
Museums
Believe it or not, there are several museums in the United States that would welcome your donations to enhance their exhibits. These include the Strong Museum of Play and the Tulsa Children's Museum. Contact each museum directly to see specific requirements. Your toys need not be in mint condition.
Children's Hospitals
See one
that has toys in the waiting room? It's likely that they were donated. When
facing medical treatments - or simply waiting for a family member - most will
welcome the distraction that your donation can give.
Foster Programs
Foster kids are often shuttled from house to house and many foster families don't have a lot of extra money to spend on toys. That's why organizations such as Foster Cares are always in need of donations. Contact your local Department of Social Services to find a similar program in your area.
Preparing Toys to Donate
Each organization that takes donated toys
has guidelines for what types of items are accepted. Most request that
donations are in good condition and in proper working order, simply because
they don't have the resources to repair broken items. Some are hesitant to
accept used stuffed animals because of concern about the potential for
transferring germs.
Before dropping off secondhand toys at a nonprofit organization call to verify that the types of items you want to give are things the agency needs. If the organization you contact isn't able to utilize what you want to donate, it's likely that the person you speak with will be able to refer you to another charitable group that is in desperate need of the items you have.
This entry was posted in Toys & Hobbies and tagged Used Toys on October 15, 2019 by Cutebuy.
Main Features: ● Magnetic blocks can be combined freely to exercise your baby's hands-on ability and creativity ● Made of natural high quality wood, environmentally friendly and durable ● Environmental protection water paint, more safe for baby ● Suitable age: 12 months +Type: Kids Building Theme: Buildings Suitable Age: Kid Gender: Unisex
Package weight: 0.892 kg Package size: 19.00 x 19.00 x 4.10 cm / 7.48 x 7.48 x 1.61 inches
Package Contents: 20 x Magnetic Block, 1 x English ManualProduct Safety Disclaimer: We do not accept any responsibility or liability for misuse of this or any other product. All our products are extensively tested to comply with rigorous and strict QC standards. For certain products (e.g. toys, knives, etc.), we recommend proper supervision as we cannot be held liable for misuse or accidents.Small Parts Disclaimer: These toys contain small parts, not for children under 3 years in case of swallowing or choking . We do not accept any responsibility or liability for misuse of this or any other product.
Tumama Construction Marble Race Run Maze Balls Track Building Blocks 52pcs
Details
Features: Material: Eco-friendly ABS plastic (non-toxic and odorless) Pieces: 52PCS Age: Children ages 3 years old and up Compatibility: Can be compatible with Duploed building blocks Package: No original color box to save shipping fee
Product size: 24.00 x 21.00 x 4.50 cm / 9.45 x 8.27 x 1.77 inches Package weight: 0.500 kg Package size: 25.00 x 22.00 x 5.50 cm / 9.84 x 8.66 x 2.17 inches
Having a toy laser gun can unlock the imagination of a child in a whole new way. A perfect pretend play item for those with active bodies that need amusement, this timeless toy is a worthy investment for anyone looking for a way to burn off a child's energy in a healthy and safe way. Even better, these guns are available in virtually any store that carries toys and will not cost you a fortune.
The
Fun of a Toy Laser Gun
A toy laser gun can bring hours of
amusement to a child, as do many toys that require role playing and a certain
level of imagination compared to more recent entertainment options such as
video games which dictate everything before you. Having a laser gun has long
been a staple plaything for little boys, and young girls will also love
partaking in "battles" throughout the house and on the playground.
Today's
guns not only shoot a laser beam that is thrilling to any youngster, but most
now also include sounds and other effects that add to play time. Manufactured
by many different toy companies including the well-known and trusted Hasbro
Corporation, these guns can be played with only two children involved, all the
way up to an entire birthday party. Many of the movies children watch today may
influence the way they play and pretend with their laser guns, while others
will prefer more active and simple games of tag and chasing each other around
on a summer day. Whatever the inspiration, having a laser gun around can help
kids find amusement, get them away from the television, and be active outdoors.
Take Laser Tag Home
Throughout the nation, laser tag centers have cropped up, uniting kids and parents on a battlefield full of laser beams and "treacherous" terrain - usually covered in foam padding. For those with children who really get a kick out of visiting indoor laser tag arenas but don't have generous entertainment budgets, you can purchase a LAZERTAG Multiplayer Battle System. While it's definitely an investment up front, the cost will pay off as your kids are able to enjoy laser tag at home whenever they wish.
In
fact, the whole family can commit to becoming more active and spending more
time together when you jump into a laser tag game. The set comes with only two
guns, but additional taggers are available for purchase, or else you can hold
rotating two-person battles when everyone wants to play. The guns include
customizable firing power and also allow for a single-player mode for kids who
want to train themselves to be amazing opponents before heading out onto the
home playing field. This game is best played in a dark house, with any
breakables cleared away.
Airsoft Meets Laser Beams
With the Laser Airzooka 2959 Air Gun, you can unleash a full-out air assault from the backyard lawn. A ball of air shoots out of this toy gun at up to 50 feet of distance after a red laser dot focuses upon your target. Mess up your sibling's hair, blast homework off of a table, or just simply startle a family member or friend while they're focused on something a bit more important than an airsoft game. Best of all, since it blasts only air, there is no clean up and it is easily operated by younger children.
Laser Gun Safety
Whether you opt to buy one of these
creative versions or settle for just a regular, more traditional gun, you will
love the hours of entertainment it provides. However, be sure to play in an
open space where things cannot get knocked down or damaged. Small children
should be dressed safely, including shoes to prevent stubbed toes. Playing in
the dark yields the best light effects, but adults should always chaperone
little ones during game play.
Main Features ● 2.4G remote control distance of up to 50 meters, equipped with 2S brush 380 strong magnetic motor ● 80A integrated brushed ESC ● Steering gear steering system ● The battery adopts cylindrical environmental lithium battery 7.4V / 650MA ● Charging time: about 150 minutes ● 2.4G remote control distance up to 50 meters ● Landing time is about 15 minutes ● The speed of the vehicle is about 22KM / H ● One-piece split straight bridge ● Configure 2S brushed 380 strong magnetic motor. ● 80A integrated brushed ESC ● Steering gear steering system ● The tire is made of rubber ● The fuselage structure, the bottom member and the rocker arm are all made of engineering nylon material and gears made of alloy ● The remote control is powered by 3 x AA battery ( not included )Brand: SUBOTECH Type: Model Car Proportion: 1:14
Package weight: 1.185 kg Package size (L x W x H): 34.00 x 30.00 x 17.00 cm / 13.39 x 11.81 x 6.69 inches
Package Contents: 1 x Off-road Vehicle Toy, 1 x Remote Control, 1 x 7.4V USB Cable, 4 x R Lock, 1 x English Manual, 2 x L Socket Wrench ( 1.5, 2.0 ), 1 x Screwdriver, 1 x Cross Wrench
JJRC Q51 MAX Six-wheel Drive Off-road Remote Control Car
Details
Main Features ● High and low speed adjustable ● High capability of crawling ● Great shock absorption performance ● Magnetic brushless motor ● Direction fine-tuning ● Designed with front LED light ● Battery: car: 700mAh Li-ion battery ( included ); remote control: 2 x AA battery ( not included )
Package weight: 1.485 kg Package size: 43.40 x 22.70 x 21.80 cm / 17.09 x 8.94 x 8.58 inches
Package Contents: 1 x RC Car, 1 x Remote Control, 1 x USB Cable, 1 x Battery, 1 x Screwdriver, 1 x English ManualProduct Safety Disclaimer: We do not accept any responsibility or liability for misuse of this or any other product. All our products are extensively tested to comply with rigorous and strict QC standards. For certain products (e.g. toys, knives, etc.), we recommend proper supervision as we cannot be held liable for misuse or accidents.Small Parts Disclaimer: These toys contain small parts, not for children under 3 years in case of swallowing or choking . We do not accept any responsibility or liability for misuse of this or any other product.
As a parent, you may wonder which are the best baby toys for your little miracle. Not only can the best baby toys be entertaining; they can also help your infant grow and develop. So, what makes a toy the best? It should be visually appealing for your child, safe for infants to manipulate and chew, and it should offer some physical or mental excitement for your baby. Look for toys with a variety of textures, shapes and actions or sounds to keep your baby interested.
1.
Blocks
Stacking blocks and nesting
blocks, ages 6 months +
Your baby will start by holding a single block and maybe chewing on it. Soon, he will enjoy knocking over simple towers you build. Then, baby will progress to building towers of his own. If you get nesting sets of blocks, they can also be placed one inside another, helping to teach your baby even more about spatial relationships. Try these soft stacking blocks, soft nesting blocks, or these sturdy wooden alphabet blocks.
Price: $10-50
2.
Plush manipulatives
Plush toys with sounds and
textures.
These are mainstays for babies and can be taken in the car and stroller easily. Several manufacturers make some very compelling and appealing plush manipulative toys that are definitely among the best baby toys. Lamaze has several including Larry the Lion that are nice to the touch and have crinkling, jingling, squeaking and rattling parts. Also look for Lamaze's "My First Fish Bowl" for a fun manipulative to teach the concepts of in and out. The Baby Whoozit from Manhattan Toy Company is great, too!
Price: $15-up
3.
Teethers
Made for chewing!
As your baby gets her teeth, she is
probably going to have some discomfort. Gnawing on a good teething toy can help
out with the pain as well as being fun. Look for heavy textured teethers, or
one of the newest types - massaging teethers. When baby bites down, these
vibrate in a soothing fashion.
Price: $3-$10
4.
Playmats and Gyminis
Soft mats for floor play, often
with baby toys suspended overhead
Playmats and gyminis provide entertainment
for your baby whether she is laying on her back or spending some time on her
tummy. Look for mats with attractive pictures, soft fabric, and exciting flaps,
tags, and other things for baby to inspect and explore while she is working
those neck, shoulder, and upper body muscles. Infant gyms dangle toys over baby
(with plastic links - never with long strings or cord) so baby can watch, grab
and reach.
Price: $40-$60
5.
Board books
Books made just for babies
It is never too soon to read to your baby and well-made books for infants can be toys, too. Look for sturdy board books, fabric books and bathtub books. Some will even have textures to touch and feel, characters and parts that attach and can be tucked in special pockets, and other fun features.
Whether
it is a standalone activity center, part of a bouncy seat or attaches to a
stroller, activity centers allow babies to try a lot of different actions.
Price:
$15-$50
7.
Keys and Phones
Toy
versions of the real thing
There is no doubt as to why toy keys and
phones are some of the best toys for babies; they know how important these
objects are to us grownups! If you choose keyrings or phones with electronic
sounds, make sure they are not too irritating since you are sure to hear them
thousands of times a day! Some toy phones even allow you to record a personal
message for baby.
From wooden blocks to electronic games, the best toys for kids make their young users think and dream while building useful skills. Of course, they're also tons of fun!
The following list focuses on the top toy categories. While the favorite licensed character of the moment can change, these classic categories will provide lasting guidance in selecting the best toys for your kids. However, LoveToKnow Best realizes you may be looking for specific suggestions, so we also provide some popular and award-winning choices in each larger category.
Kids love to pretend, and the best toys for kids can spark their imaginations and lead to hours of fun. The Real Projects Workshop was a grand prize winner in the 2006 FamilyFun.com Toy of the Year awards. With this pretend workshop kids can play with realistic tools while building projects out of foam "wood". Dora's Talking Kitchen won "Girl Toy of the Year" in the 2006 Toy Industry Association Toy of the Year Awards, adding a new face (and voice) to traditional cooking play.
3. Stuffed Animals
Every kid needs a cuddly friend. Kids may ask for stuffed animals based on popular television and movie characters, but teddy bears, stuffed dogs, and other plush figures that haven't appeared on-screen will have long-lasting appeal. For a unique twist on stuffed animals, the Lil' Luvables Fluffy Factory lets kids stuff their own teddy bears. It was a Toy of the Year grand prize winner at FamilyFun.com.
4. Games
Games foster cooperation while encouraging everything from memory skills to exercise. Hullabaloo, from the makers of Cranium, won "Best Game" honors in the 2006 Toy Industry Association Toy of the Year Awards. The game gets kids moving and laughing as they follow instructions from the game's audio console. Twister Dance DVD made it to Dr. Toy's 100 Best Children's Products List by putting a new spin on a classic kids' game with dance moves.
5. Squishy Substances
Most kids can't get enough of materials they can squeeze and mold, even if parents don't always enjoy the resulting mess. While Play-Doh is a classic choice, with the Play-Doh Creativity Center earning a place on the FamilyFun.com Toy of the Year list, there are many other options. MSNBC.com added Moon Sand to its 2006 list of the Best Toys Under $25, and it also appeared on Dr. Toy's 100 Best Children's Products List.
6. Arts and Crafts Supplies
Inspire creativity while developing fine motor skills with art supplies and craft kits. MSNBC.com selected the WonderWorks Talking Picture Book as one of the best educational toys of the 2006 holiday season. In addition to functioning as a portable drawing pad, WonderWorks allows kids to record stories to accompany their pictures. FamilyFun.com picked Inspiration Bands as one of the best toys for kids. The kit allows them to make personalized versions of the popular rubber wristbands.
7. Building Toys
Building blocks and other construction toys allow kids to feel a sense of accomplishment as they see their plans become reality. Legos are always popular. Along with the classic block sets, there are themed kits for numerous interests, from pirates to space travel. For more intricate construction possibilities, K'NEX Super Structures was named to the Dr. Toy list.
8. Dolls and Action Figures
From playing house to enacting elaborate stories with a fleet of superheroes, dolls and action figures can inspire hours of imaginative play. Baby's First EZ Dress Dolly Travel & Go was another pick from MSNBC.com's list of the Best Toys Under $25. It also earned a place on the Dr. Toy list. Baby Alive was a top pick at FamilyFun.com.
As soon as they can walk both boys and girls are attracted to riding toys, toys they can sit on and propel with their feet. The "need for speed" evolves with a child's growth as they go from foot-propelled cars and trikes to pedal cars and tricycles and, finally, to two-wheelers, fast scooters, and skate boards.
Foot-Propelled
Vehicles
Toy stores offer a variety of
foot-propelled toys, including cars, trucks, and tricycles. Some of these
transitional toys can be mounted on stationary rockers so that they can be
rocked in place like a traditional rocking horse. These toys typically have
plastic wheels and can be used safely indoors on carpet and hard floors without
appreciable damage. They can also be used outdoors, but may pick up sand and
dirt in the wheels that may damage floors during the next indoor use. Parents
may wish to consider segregating outdoor riding toys from those that will be
used indoors.
Some popular foot-propelled vehicles include:
Classic Coupe Riding Toy: This fun, colorful push car has a working door, and a durable plastic body with a low center of gravity to avoid spills. Aged 18 months +.
Sit and Ride Train: Designed to give children early balance and bike-riding skills, this foot-powered riding toy is perfect for indoors or small spaces. Ages 12 months +.
Parent-Controlled Pedal Vehicles
For children who are mastering the
different motor skills required to ride a bike independently, parents can opt
for pedal vehicles that are steered and controlled by an adult using a steering
handle. This assists the child in learning essential balancing, pedaling, and
speed controls, while giving the parent the peace of mind that her child will
be safe. Helmets are still recommended. Common parent-controlled pedal tricycles
include:
Schwinn Easy Steer Tricycle: With wide tires, easy access for parents, and a wide basket for carrying additional toys or supplies, this classic red tricycle is the perfect way for your child to begin learning to master riding skills. The handle is removable when your child is ready to ride independently. Ages 2+.
Joovy Tricycoo Tricycle: This fun and colorful trike is recommended for children 18 months and older. Designed with parental control of steering and pedaling, it gives young children time to learn each skill independently. As your child grows, controls are easily lifted for independent bike-riding. This durable tricycle offers a large basket and a bell for extra fun.
Pedal Cars and Tricycles
Some time between the ages of 2 and 3,
children develop sufficient coordination to operate foot pedals in a pedal car
or a tricycle. These riding toys are used mostly outdoors, and safety becomes a
consideration. Tricycles, in particular, should have a low center of gravity
(most of the weight towards the bottom) to prevent tipping. The child should be
able to easily reach the pedals. An adjustable tricycle allows for growth.
Pedal extensions are available, but may be awkward to use. Purchase of a first
tricycle is a good time for purchase of a child's first safety helmet, creating
safety habits that are valuable when a child graduates to a two-wheeler.
Accessories, such as bells, horns, and
handle-bar streamers are available for tricycles. Common pedal car and trike
options include:
Hot Rod Pedal Car: Your child will be king of the road in this inspired, colorful pedal car. With no-slip pedals, traction tires, and three seat adjustments, learning to effectively operate a pedal car has never been so much fun! Ages 3+.
Fold-2-Go Trike: With an adjustable seat, low center of gravity, and strong durability, this trike is perfect for children to use in almost any outdoor conditions. Ages 2+.
Wagons
Four-wheeled wagons, such as Radio Flyers,
are popular. Children seated in a wagon can be pulled by another child or a
parent, and children also enjoy putting toys such as dolls or plush animals
inside and taking them for a ride. Some tricycles and pedal cars have wagon
hitches to allow them to pull wagons. Again, safety is important. Wagons should
be designed so that they do not tip easily, especially when navigating corners.
Quality wagon choices include:
Radio Flyer #2700 Pathfinder Wagon: With an extra long handle, a storage compartment, and child seat belts, this wagon is designed for small children who need a comfortable, safe ride. Ages 12 months +.
All-Terrain Wagon: Handcrafted with removable sides and multiple child safety features, this wagon can be used on beaches or trails. Ages 12 months +.
Bicycles
Bicycles for very young children usually
come with training wheels, which keep a bike from tipping over while a child is
learning to balance on two wheels. Some children never need training wheels,
while others may use them for an extended period while building enough
conference to take off on two wheels. Most beginner bikes do not have multiple
gears. Bikes designed specifically for girls may lack a crossbar so that skirts
can be worn while riding a bike. However, many young girls prefer bikes that
are designed just like those for boys.
Older kids typically want more
sophisticated multi-gear bikes, racing bikes, dirt bikes, or mountain bikes.
Seats and handlebars can be chosen to meet the comfort needs of the individual
rider. Safety helmets are a necessity for bicycle riders and, in some states,
they are mandated by law.
Excellent bicycle choices for young
children include:
Scorch: The classic Schwinn design, along with training wheels, make this bike in instant hit with boys. The training wheels are easily removed. Ages 3-4.
Huffy 14-inch Girls' Disney Fairies Bike: A shimmery purple bike with optional training wheels, a basket, and handle streamers, this bicycle is adaptable for young girls learning balance and pedaling control. Ages 4+.
Older children may be interested in the
following bikes:
Mantis Raptor: This bike has 21 gears, a steel frame, an adjustable seat, and a bold purple and black paint scheme. Ages 10+.
Cobra 20 Jr. Mountain Bike: The knobby tires on this bike give it traction on dirt roads and gravel, and the steel frame and hand brakes give older children the chance to develop more advanced biking skills. Age 10+.
Scooters,
Skateboards, and Roller Skates
Scooters, skateboards, and roller skates,
including roller blades, are popular with older kids. They also present safety
issues, particularly for injuries to heads, knees and elbows. Helmets, plus
knee and elbow pads, are essential and assure fun by helping to prevent serious
injuries.
Some popular roller skate models include:
Chicago Girls Roller Skate: This classically designed rink skate comes with wide, pink rollers for extra stability, as well as a toe stopper. Ages 5+.
Boys Roller Derby Hornet Pro Inline Skate: This inline skate gives boys an introduction to inline skating, with adjustable straps and a toe stopper. Ages 4+.
Scooter models that span different ages
include:
Razor Razor Lil Blue Kick: Created for first-time riders, this three-wheeled scooter is easily folded for storage and transport. Ages 3+
Razor Scooter: The simple design and variety of colors give the Razor an edge. Ease of use makes this a perfect choice for kids. Ages 7+
Kids interested in skateboarding may enjoy:
Radio Flyer Scoot 2 Skate: This scooter/skateboard is designed to give younger children the ability to practice skateboarding skills with a scooter design. The scooter shaft/handles can be removed when a child is comfortable riding the skateboard alone. Ages 3+.
SkateXS Purple Panda Beginning Board: The wide deck makes this skateboard easy to use and safe, although a helmet, wrist and knee supports are always advised. Ages 8+.
Choosing Riding Toys
Kids' ride-on toys should be selected with
an eye on appropriateness for a child's age, motor development, and safety. If
the toy is intended for outdoor use its finish should be durable and water
resistant. If will be used only indoors, tires and other parts should not
scratch floors or mar furniture or woodwork.
It's
possible to find appropriate mobile toys for kids of all ages. Babies as young
as twelve months like to climb onto foot propelled cars and scoot around the
house. In the elementary school years, bikes and scooters are very popular.
Pre-teens through older teenagers enjoy ten-speed bikes, mountain bikes,
skateboards, and roller blades.
Riding Toy Designs
Ride-on
toys come in a variety of colors and sizes and often feature logos from
favorite movie, television, and cartoon characters. At the toddler and
pre-school level, there is very little difference between the mechanical
designs of riding toys designed for boys and those for girls. However, the external
design of a miniature car marketed for little boys may feature strong, bright
primary colors and super-hero logos; the same car, decorated for girls, may
feature bright pastels and a Barbie® or princess logo. Of course there are also
lots of riding toys that are decorated with a unisex motif.
Ride in Safety
Parents and kids have many choices when it
comes to riding toys. The fascination with mobility extends from babyhood to
adulthood. Parents need to be vigilant about safety while allowing their
children to benefit from the fun and exercise offered by ride-on toys.
Range Rovers, a Land Rovers model manufactured in Britain shortly after WWII, are now produced by India's Tata Motors. What this means to toy collectors or casual buyers is a wide selection of models in options ranging from die-cast collectibles to ride-on toys for kids.
Die-Cast
Range Rovers
The look of the Range Rover lends itself to the die-cast category, so buying options are extensive. Manufacturers have created everything from military-style vehicles to the present-day crossover Evoque.
Die-Cast Models Wholesale: This site has a nice selection of newer Range Rover toyslike the Evoque or Sports model, but it also has a handful of the older models going back to the 1940s. The online company has been in business since 2005 and has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau. Prices range from $15 to $150 plus shipping costs, which start at around $10. They do not accept returns unless the item is damaged during shipping in which case it will be replaced at no extra cost.
Amazon: Amazon carries a wide range of Range Rover toys including a nice selection of die-cast vehicles. Prices vary from about $5 for Hot Wheel versions to $75 or more for collectible die-casts, like the 1/18 scale Range Rover Evoque. Since the site handles new merchandise, it is one of the best places to find the latest versions of Range Rovers in not only die-casts, but also other types of toys. Amazon's policies and shipping rates apply for all sales, but the return policy and shipping costs can vary slightly if sold by a third-party vendor.
Plastic Models
If you search through the shelves of your
local department store, you might find plastic, build-it-yourself models of
Range Rovers. If not, two online options are:
Model Cars: This British company sells plastic and die-cast models including older and military models. Many of the kits are labeled Land Rovers. One of the nicest features of this site is that sales are handled through Amazon, giving the buyer more protection should an issue occur, since the policies of Amazon are applicable to any sale. The affiliation also helps to ensure reasonable shipping rates for customers in the U.S.
eBay: The popular online auction site is often the best place to find obscure or out-of-print plastic kits. Be advised though that search results often include any Range Rover toy and not just the plastic model kits. With any online auction site, buyers need to make sure they are clear on what they are purchasing before they commit to the item. Since the items are sold by different sellers, alway double check the seller's rating, shipping costs and method, and return policy.
Remote Control
Remote control toy vehicles continue to be a popular hobby in the United States, so plenty of regional hobby enthusiast stores are scattered throughout the country. Because these stores specialize in RC vehicles, they are often the best place to begin looking for a specific model like a Range Rover. In addition to local stores, online options also exist.
Trend Times:This site offers several models of RC Rovers, from a pink electric model that retails for about $60 to a shiny black remote control truck that small kids can actually ride on, which sells for about $500. They ship nearly anywhere in the world, with shipping costs based on weight and method. If items are damaged during shipping they must be returned within 24 hours, otherwise you can check their extensive return policyfor details on other situations.
HobbyTron: Because of its focus on the hobby of remote control vehicles, HobbyTronfeatures high-quality vehicles with model sizes as large as a 1/12 scale. The company has a 90-day warranty, a reward program for frequent shoppers, a price match guarantee, and free shipping for orders over $149. The site also has a nice learning section that's perfect for those just starting out with RC vehicles. Prices start at around $10 and go up to just over $60.
Ride-On Range Rovers
Something about driving their own battery-powered vehicle really excites children, which is probably why parents are willing to pay for this relatively high-priced toy. These vehicles are usually powered by either a 12-volt or 6-volt system and come with a battery-charging device. Department stores often sell ride-on vehicles during the holiday-shopping season, but you can sometimes find Range Rover models online throughout the year.
Toys R Us: Toys R Us offers the 6V version for around $200 while 12V models sell for just under $400. Both models seat two children and have working doors. The larger model can travel up to 4.5mph, while the smaller one clocks in at 2.5mph. Items can be purchased online and picked up at the store usually on the same day, or shipped to your home for $100. The store offers a two-year extended warranty on the vehicle for around $50.
Walmart: Walmart sells the standard 12V version in either grey or white for around $400, as well as the Vroom Rider Rastar model in white only, which retails for just over $350. Walmart offers a free ship to store option or you can ship it to your home for $50. The store offers a couple of Care plans -- which are basically extended warranties -- although they also cover some damages caused by 'normal' wear and tear. The plans start at $40 for the three-year option.
Just For Collectors
Technically not a selling site, Allison is a great resource especially for collectors, because it lists toy companies that manufacture die-cast or plastic Range Rovers. When you click on a company's name a new page opens describing the Range Rover model or models sold by the company. The description often includes the manufacturing date.
Another often-overlooked source for Range Rover toys is the manufacturing company itself or a Range Rover parts company. The RoverParts website usually carries about 15-20 toy vehicles and, for the true Range Rover enthusiast, it also has a gift section. Although RoverParts is a British site, it has two shipping locations in the U.S., making it accessible and affordable for state-side customers.
Fresh Design
Over the 60-year history of the Range Rover, the vehicle has sported a wide variety of looks. These changes have kept the vehicles, and their toy versions, fresh and engaging, which means just like with the real deal, there is always a new one to buy.
