Toys, Toys, Toys!

Keeping your child entertain is a challenge in itself. Finding educational toys that encourages learning and stimulates growth is what any parent wants for their child. With recalls occurring more frequently, how do parents know what their purchasing is safe? Even though the toys being imported into USA and Canada are heavily regulated, it is still the job of the parent to inspect the toys that they purchase. Reputable toy companies such as Toys R’ Us have weekly flyers that let you know when popular toys go on sale; but usually it would require a subscription.

Here are a few general guidelines:

• Toys with fabric and/ or stuffed should be labelled flame resistant and machine washable
• Try to avoid painted toys, but if purchased make sure the label states painted with lead free paint
• Is the toy suitable for the age of your child
• Toys should be bigger than the child’s mouth, especially if the child is under the age of 3
• The weight of the toy
• Is the toy well put together
• Are there sharp corners or edges
• Does the toy come with any ropes, plastic restraints, or cords
• The condition of the toys
• Children like colourful and noise making toys
• Try to avoid hand-me-down toys ( they may be filled with dust and other micro-organisms, or may not be up to today’s code)
Make sure to purchase toys from companies that you recognise and trust. If you still have doubts you can check out the Canadian Toy Testing Council. They test hundreds of toys and produce annual reports for the best and safe toys. All results are posted on their website.
Below are some websites to check out, make sure to do your research!
http://toy-testing.org/

http://www.cbc.ca/news/yourcommunity/2011/11/what-do-you-look-for-when-buying-toys.html
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/prod/toys-jouets-eng.php


Happy Buying 

Organizing a Swap Party & Second-Hand Stores & Buying Clothes

Many young mothers and young parents struggle with daily expenditures such as food, diapers, baby essentials and most importantly clothes. By organizing a swap party young mothers can benefit from getting essentials from friends and families without spending any money. A swap party is when a group of young mothers and family members get together to swap clothing and baby essentials that they might not need anymore for their child but can be useful for those who are expecting or new moms. The party entitles everyone to get together and provide food and snacks prepared by those attending and bringing a whole bunch of things that they might not need anymore for their children. By providing one article they may swap for another essential from a group member. This is extremely beneficial and encouraged to many young parents to participate in to help them provide for their young families.

If swap parties are not your forte there are other resources you can use such as; Second hand stores. Although they require to spend money they are relatively inexpensive to shop at. You can generally find brand name items gently used for the fraction of the price at retail stores. They also buy gently use clothing (almost like a swap). I personally have bought many items from 2nd hand stores for my daughter Serena. Many things including; strollers, change tables, cribs, high chairs, car seat snuggles and age appropriate clothing.

If any of the two options are not your cup of tea you can just wait for retailers to put certain items of sale. The best time to buy clothing and other essentials are during off seasons for example; buy winter clothing for your tots during spring and summer and vice versa. Many retailers provide promotional coupons as well for certain child friendly products they just require you to sign up on their website.

Hope this helps :) keep smiling and buying