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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 1987-12-02, Page 14PAGE 14. THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 2, 1987. r^^Nort/i Huron Gift Guide '87 Cuddly toys are always Christmas favourites The popularity of the Wrinkles toys has spread from Canada into the U.S. With more than 4,000 new toys introduced every year, it’s no wonder that parents will have a difficult time choosing an appro­ priate holiday gift this Christmas. It seems that every December there’samassexodusto the toy stores where parents begin the never-ending search for the per­ fect plaything. This year, parents will be pleased to know that the new trend is back-to-basics gifts that run on imagination. Cold, robot-like dolls seem to be taking a back seat to warm and cuddly toys that allow children to use their own creativity and sense of discovery. A good toy can become a child’s constant companion, particularly in aworld where more and more parents are on the go, with less time to spend with their children. Toys that children can use to create their own scenes or conver­ sation may actually help children develop socially. Child experts agree that it’s important for boys and girls to try way s of dealing with reality through role playing: learn­ ing methods of problem-solving through play. “Children want to emulate the adult world,’’ says Dr. Janice Gibson, a child psychologist and contributing editor to Parents’ Magazine. “The tools they use are their toys.” “Perhaps the most important thing to keep in mind is to look for a simple toy with good play value that can be used in a variety of ways,” says Dr. Gibson. “One toy that comes to mind is the dog, Wrinkles. The fact that the toy is also a puppet allows children to do many interesting things so they won’t be bored. Wrinkles is very cuddly and lovable, but at the same time the doll has a sophisti­ cated look which appeals to older LIGHT-UP YOUR CHRISTMAS With a visit to... “Christmas & Country SEE OUR FULL SELECTION OF: □ Christmas Ceramic Snow Village Collection ‘87 □Christmas Trees □Garlands □Gourmet Gift Baskets □ Christmas Centerpieces AND MANY MORE GIFT ITEMS. WICKER WONDERLAND fast tfait Special StMtc&ae! SEE OUR INSTORE CHRISTMAS SPECIALS From now until Christmas Eve > open 7 days BLYTH 120 QUEEN ST.N. 523-4820 children as well. He makes a wonderful friend.” The author of eight books on child development, Dr. Gibson believes soft, cuddly toys provide touching which is important if children are to learn about loving and caring. “Many parents under­ estimate the importance of the feel of a toy,” says Dr. Gibson. “Play can be very serious business for children. They learn about the world through their senses, which makes the huggable, colorful toys all the more important.” When choosing a toy for a child there are a number of things to consider. The child’s age, strong- st interests and level of develop­ ment are just as important as the safety and durability of the toy. And parents shouldn’t be too concerned about all the media pressures about what might be right or wrong for children. Before you purchase a toy, make sure it meets all of the safety standards set by the Canadian Toy Council. If the toy is a stuffed animal, or doll, make sure it is well constructed to withstand extended use. If you plan to purchase a stuffed animal, choose one with soft plush that won’t fall out when you pet it. Also check to be sure that any clothes are well-stitched and ma­ chine washable. Lastly, avoid toys with hard, protruding objects - particularly for toddlers - as they can be removed or swallowed. We are a Blyth Bucks participant. Framed art a gift that keeps on giving People do not want their gifts to fall into the “Oh-thank-you- another-handkerchief category.’’ A gift is a reflection of one’s taste, style and judgement. And every day, people search for that perfect gift for a relative or friend. The Professional Picture Fram­ ers Association offers these sug­ gestions for unique framed art that will be a ‘gift that keeps on giving”: •A completed jigsaw puzzle with one piece left out and given separately as a good luck charm. •Maps and nautical charts - perhapscharting a family vaca­ tion. •A program, ticket stub and a picture from a special celebration. •A montage of a college accep­ tance letter, photographs of col­ lege dormitory rooms, favorite campus hangouts and friends. •A special poem, possibly illustra­ ted by you. •A restored picture of a grandpar­ ent as a child. •An appropriate cartoon or carica­ ture. Of course, there is also the traditional poster, sketch, silk­ screen, landscape or portrait that can be beautifully framed as a gift. Frame a memory to last a lifetime. » "/Advance orders for J" Christmas W (Avoid Disappointment" * < We are participating in the Brussels "Extra J ingles Draws" Don't forget Santa's Treat Todd’s /\ Bakery 887-6666 ^4 □k Brussels^ THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10th OPEN TILL 9:00 P.M. WE HAVE A GREAT SELECTION OF: Teddies Camisoles Nighties Housecoats Lounge Wear & Much More Come join us for refreshments & our personalized service