The simplest toys are often the best.

Children's toys are a billion-dollar industry, and constantly shifting toy trends, combined with the often-fickle tastes of youngsters, can make toy shopping confusing and frustrating for adults. How can you choose a toy that's likely to make a child's face light up with joy, even after this year's fads have faded away?

Richard & Diane Ross are co-owners of the Silly Goose, a charming and unique toy store in the seaside town of Essex, Massachusetts. Passionately dedicated to their business, they believe that toys are essential to the well being, happiness, and development of children of all ages. They offer their insights for those looking to buy quality toys for kids.

• Age range.
  Selecting toys aimed to the wrong age group is a classic buying mistake. To avoid this, Richard suggests buying something made for kids just slightly older than your child. This helps ensure that the toy is still appropriate, but will also be a little challenging and stimulating.
  
• The child's interests.
  Before you go shopping, make sure you know what the child enjoys. Is she creative? Does he like to play board games or card games? Does she like to build things?
  
• Fun and imagination.
  Diane believes that good old fashioned laughs and giggles are key to any toy buying decision, but imagination is also vital. Any toy that encourages a child to use her imagination or that will lead to fun and creative play is a great choice.
  
• Classic toys.
  Richard is a big fan of classic wooden toys. Not only do they look great, but they're built to take the punishment of repeated play, and might even become heirloom toys, passed down to each new generation of kids.
  
• Less is more.
  Diane thinks that a lot of toy buyers tend to overdo it. They forget that it's all about having a good time, and that one or two classic, quality toys can often be better than a whole pile of toys. So think classic, keep it simple, and have fun!

For more information on toys for kids, visit a toy store in your area or check out the following websites:

Silly Goose Toy Store
166 Main Street Essex, MA 01929
866-771-0282
www.usillygoose.com

Nostalgic Classics
www.nostalgicclassics.com

Dr. Toy
www.drtoy.com

Etoys
www.etoys.com

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