Toyland, Toyland…

Within the aisles of Toys R Us, my children became convinced that in addition to the usual food, water, shelter, and love… they now need: a video game system you play while riding a bike, more Legos, more Matchbox cars, more wooden trains, a battery-operated race track or two, remote control cars, a dog that lifts its paw to shake, a bicycle that looks like a motorcycle… the list goes on and on.

After an hours time, much discussion, several vetoes from “mean Mommy,” and a bit of suggestive guidance, Connor finally decided on a Lightening McQueen bicycle helmet with knee pads and two sets of Star Wars action figures. In fact, not bad choices. Connor did truly need a new bicycle helmet, and he and Ryan do have a small collection of Star Wars figures and ships which they play with for hours on their own; four figures added to this collection would not be excessive.

As we left the store, I breathed a sigh of relief. The many battery-operated toys that stifle creativity, discourage imaginative play, and are likely to be forgotten in a closet or lost under the couch within a week remained on the over-stuffed store shelves; and in their hands, the boys had items that are sure to be used for hours and hours of old-fashioned fun. Whew, I was thinking, we survived our excursion into Toyland… this time.

Whether or not the boys became more discriminating shoppers as a result of my vetoes, gentle suggestions, and explanations remains to be seen. I’d like to think they’re learning a little about what makes a good toy, a good purchase, a need versus a desire, but I do understand I’m up against some powerful adversaries: toys with whistles and bells, persuasive marketing, and little boys who love to have fun. Lord, give me strength!