What Makes the Best Kids Toys?

We're often asked what defines a very good children's toy. We've compiled a few ideas to help you pick the right toy for the children on your list: 

• The toy should be interesting. If your child is not interested in a toy, he or she won't play with it. The money and time you invested in selecting it will be wasted.
• The toy should be age appropriate. Too easy, and your child will get bored quickly. Too tough, and your child will feel frustrated. There is an optimal level of difficulty when selecting a toy or game for your child.
• The toy should help the child develop more confidence, curiousity, problem solving or hand/eye coordination. In short, the child's skills should be somehow improved by investing in the game or toy.
• The toy should offer some opportunities for creativity. Look for games which can be played in multiple ways or which allow for multiple outcomes. 
• The toy should be a good investment over time. It should provide enough value for the money invested. This leaves out toys which are fads or which only have one purpose.
• The best toys are ones which engage the child's imagination and allow him or her to immerse fully in the game or play environment.

This is our short list of what makes a good toy. What do you think?