Articles on Toys | Topics: toys, toy
by Efren Gomez
First it was the so-called MTV generation: a whole generation of glassy-eyed kids weaned on 24 hour a day streaming video, over stimulated by flashing images of sex, violence and explosions. Now it's the video game generation: young children who spend their free time living in a virtual world where they are rewarded for making things blow up, driving fast cars, and shooting at targets. Critics of these 'virtual' pastimes argue that much of the current rise in obesity and overall decline in good health can be attributed to the sedentary pastimes that children indulge in. It is said that if this pattern continues, children today can expect to live, on average, shorter and less healthy lives than their parents.
If you're tired of seeing your children slouched and glued to the TV or video game console, get your kids to move outdoors. The benefits for children who participate in some sort of regular outdoor activity or game are numerous: reduced risk of becoming obese, stronger bones, less prone to infection, and overall better attitude. What can you do to get your kids moving outdoors? Here is a short list of some of the best outdoor toys to get your kids moving again.
1. The good old-fashioned playground. One thing that hasn't changed over the years is the love that young children hold for the park. Why not create a small-scale version of your favorite neighborhood park, right in your own backyard for your younger child? Affordable swing sets and other equipment are more affordable today than ever before. Many families purchase 'playground in a box' do-it-yourself sets that can be even more economical. Install a swing set, some monkey bars, slide, and sandbox in your back yard, and watch your young child go!
2. Wet fun with a Slip n Slide. Many adults cherish memories of warm summer days spent sliding across the banana yellow plastic of their Slip n Slide. The classic suburban summertime outdoor toy, the Slip n Slide is sturdy, safe, and fun for children of all ages. When the weather is right, unfurl the Slip n Slide, attach your hose to the nozzle, and watch your child run and slide while watering the lawn at the same time!
3. A bubble-maker or large bubble wand. A bubble blower toy is a great way to get children to play outside. Children will be mesmerized by the sight of such large, crystalline bubbles floating magically across their yard. The Gazillion Bubblater from Funrise Toys is a good choice for your child that comes equipped with a large bottle of bubble solution.
| Historical Quote |
Why should kings and nobles have
Pictured trophies to their grave,
And we, churls, to thee deny
Thy pretty toys with thee to lie—
A more harmless vanity?
| —Charles Lamb (1775–1834) |
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4. A cardboard playhouse or tree house. What better way to get children to explore their backyard environment than to bring a semblance of home to the outdoors? If are not particularly handy with a hammer, saw, and nails, don't fret. Many pre-fabricated cardboard playhouses are available that are inexpensive, sturdy, and easy to put together. Many cardboard playhouses are decorated in full color motifs and graphics that can capture your child's imagination. Children love to play elaborate games of 'playing house.' An outdoor playground can lend a degree of realism to their games, while allowing them their own space to play and imagine freely.
If you do happen to be handy with tools, building a playhouse or tree house with your children can be a wonderful experience to bond with your child. It also presents a wonderful opportunity for your child to learn the basics of design, building, and carpentry.
5. Water soakers. Water fights are a great way for you and your children to find relief in the sweltering days of summer. The popular Super Soaker line of water guns have kept a whole generation of kids wet and happy in the battlefields of their own backyard. The Shield Blaster 3000 is a recent favorite water gun that comes equipped with three different-sized nozzles.
6. The classic Radio Flyer red wagon and wheelbarrow. Does your child demonstrate an interest in gardening or building? The classic Radio Flyer wagon is an excellent way to entice your children to play in the backyard. What child doesn't enjoy a safe ride in their Radio Flyer red wagon? The Radio Flyer wheelbarrow is also an excellent tool and toy that is perfect for your favorite little gardener.
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Please note: All personal opinions expressed in the "Get Moving – Top Outdoor Toys to Get Kids Moving" article belong to the contributing author and are not necessarily shared by ToysGiftsPresents.com. |
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