This month, parents have finally found a way to combine what their children want with what they want for their children. Shopping specialists at CSN Stores – a top three online retailer with over 200 e-boutiques – have spotted an emerging trend within its toys and games category: items that encourage learning, exploration, imagination, and creativity, are virtually flying off of the virtual racks.For example, from March ’09 – September ‘09, a number of related categories have exhibited a significant spike is sales, including play houses (406 percent), theater (111 percent), toddler development toys (93 percent), puppets (41 percent), and pretend play (18 percent). Our experts suggest these increases can be attributed to a number of factors. One, parents are hoping to get a little more out of their purchases than just a few hours of idle time. It’s one thing for the toy to entertain their two year old, but now toys are available that, for example, improve a child’s color recognition and spatial reasoning - which leads us to the second factor. More and more manufacturers are looking into ways to innovatively and effectively package a learning experience into a fun time.
Because such items have proven to be immensely popular, we have asked our specialists to assemble a top ten list of the best ‘educational toys’ on the market, from pattern cards and puzzles to science kits.
10. Step2 - Art Master Activity Desk - $79.99
9. K's Kids - K's Kids School Bus and Finger Puppets Set - $34.99
8. LeapFrog - Leapster 2 Learning System - $76.99
7. Step2 - Easel For Two with Foam Magnets - $49.99
6. Learning Resources - Pretend and Play Calculator Cash Register - $29.99
5. Fascinations - World Alive Butterfly Kit - $29.99
4. Superstructs - Wacky Machines Building 175 Piece Set - $59.99
3. Lisa LeLeu - Diggity the Dog Puppet Show Book - $24.99
2. KidKraft - Silver Retro Kitchen - $1501.
1. Fractiles - Large and Fridge Fractiles Set - $33.99
