Children's toys are gimmicky trash

Well Christmas is on the way so you're going to see more gimmicky trash toys. Get used to it. On the plus side they might be cheaper because people can't afford to spend as much this year. It's still a hopeless waste of money though.

Tony,
My kids are getting an assortment of plastic and modern toys from grandparents, aunts and uncles, and friends, so they will indeed be getting things that are more conventional. Plus they are getting an assortment of stocking stuffers and such from us. And its not about the items themselves, its the time we spend with them creating and using the gifts. They are old enough to enjoy it and the presents are appropriate for their ages and interests. Christmas isn't about what you get, its the experience and traditions. I got similar presents as a child and they remain part of my fondest memories (I know that sounds sappy but its true). I would not like my kids to expect to get everything they want just because its Christmas but to remember its a treat to get gifts at all. As adults, they'll remember the traditions and hopefully pass them on.

Will your children be happy? It depends the age of your children if craft toys would be good for them. The new plastic toys are just an example of todays throw away generation. They are going to grow out of anny toy that you give them. They will probably go through a carpentry set as fast as they would with the new plastic toy.

You shouldnt give a child a present because it teaches them skills they should recieve a gift that they will enjoy for the time that they are still at the age that they can.

There is nothing worse than going down to look under the christmas tree just to be dissapointed that they did not get the toy that they wanted.

For Christmas my kids are getting paints and craft stuff (youngest) and a carpentry set (oldest). They can make their own blooming toys! They will probably end up better quality than store bought and will likely be played with longer. Plus it encourages hand/eye coordination and other skills. And we’ll save the boxes for the baby! Everyone wins!