Is it just me or do all the toys look like cheap junk?

**carlitasway** · 11-06-2007, 01:01 PM

I'm looking at all these commercials for toys and they all look like expensive trash. They don't look durable at all. Am I the only one who feels this way?

**Cricket1** · 11-06-2007, 01:04 PM

No, you're not! We have a "Learning Express" toy store near us and I love it. The only thing I bought from Walmart for Christmas is moon sand. All of the other toys came from LE. They have toys that are nice quality.

**steelergal** · 11-06-2007, 02:18 PM

I totally agree! This year I was trying to do quality toys over the typical commercial things- but with a 4 year old it is hard (especiailly with a husband that tries to please his children and get them what they ask for). There are a few things that me and my hubby agreed on not to get her- the Polly Pocket racetrack (too expensive and too many negative remarks) and the Disney Princess enchanted story book castle (again too expensive for what you get). Of course we did have to get a few Barbie things (which I am so nervous about with the recalls!).

**pita1213** · 11-06-2007, 09:30 PM

for ds, we went with legos. they haven't changed in years. still made by the same folks as when i was a kid. even work with the bricks i had as a kid.

**changed4life** · 11-06-2007, 09:41 PM

I'm so glad we're out of the toy phase at our house! Good luck with your toy shopping.

**Libby** · 11-08-2007, 08:24 PM

Originally Posted by pita1213

for ds, we went with legos. they haven't changed in years. still made by the same folks as when i was a kid. even work with the bricks i had as a kid.

See, now thats a true sign of a great toy. Nothing HAD to be changed over the years and the proof is that your originals work with your childs originals. Leggo knew not to mess with a good thing when they already have it

**monkeywrangler71** · 11-08-2007, 08:36 PM

Well, I haven't seen any commercials, and I stay out of the toy department, but I'm going to assume that everything is cheap trash, just because that's about all I've seen in past years. My kids have various blocks, little people, trucks, and a leap pad - I got rid of pretty much everything else.

This year I gave up on new toys. I bought a used wooden train set for the kids and I'm making everything else - I'm sick of plastic garbage.

**Luv2BeFrugal** · 11-09-2007, 01:57 AM

Yup! It all looks like cheap junk to me...and not just the toys...MANY other things, too... Ugh...

**kittykatstrong** · 11-09-2007, 02:00 AM

Originally Posted by pita1213

for ds, we went with legos. they haven't changed in years. still made by the same folks as when i was a kid. even work with the bricks i had as a kid.

My DH just said the same thing today. Too funny.

Katy

**momto6** · 11-11-2007, 09:40 AM

I so agree!! I think this year is the worst in a long time. Not only is all the toys plastic trash, they want $50.00 a piece (at least) for every single toy. This is our tightest year ever and I am trying to come up with creative solutions. My 8 year old loves to cook and do crafts so I am making up little gift baskets with things in it she can do. I am buying very limited pre made commercial toys. Don't like them and can't afford them. The little boys want some transformers so they might get one a piece but that will be it. Amy

**carlitasway** · 11-11-2007, 09:44 AM

Originally Posted by momto6

I so agree!! I think this year is the worst in a long time. Not only is all the toys plastic trash, they want $50.00 a piece (at least) for every single toy. This is our tightest year ever and I am trying to come up with creative solutions. My 8 year old loves to cook and do crafts so I am making up little gift baskets with things in it she can do. I am buying very limited pre made commercial toys. Don't like them and can't afford them. The little boys want some transformers so they might get one a piece but that will be it. Amy

The Dollar Tree has cookie cutters and baskets. You may want to check them out! Just stay away from their toys, they break in seconds. Also, check out thrift shops for stuff.

**inneedofhope** · 11-11-2007, 04:01 PM

some great ideas for little ones:
wooden blocks (they like then plain, no need for the paint or characters)
Florr puzzles are usually a big hit with 3 and 4 yr old boys
art supplies and paper
playdough and rollers and cookie cutters
dress up clothes (boys seem to like them, too) a box of halloween costumes from the thrift store or old fasioned dressed and costume jewelry has lots of play value.
Kids always want the commercial stuff, but what I see them playing with most are usually the tried and true basics.