Now that Thanksgiving is over we can start preparing for Christmas and that means Santa Claus and presents under the tree and all the fun stuff that the kiddos (and some of the adults, I’m lookin’ at you Mr. Green Guru) love.  We changed over from plastic toys that beep and blip to wooden toys made from sustainable and non-toxic materials a couple of years ago and have never looked back. The little one even asks whether or not something is made of plastic and if the plastic is good or bad.  At this point she won’t even accept plastic toys and we are thankful for toy companies who manufacture healthy toys that she can enjoy.  These toys and games encourage the imagination and educate at the same time and don’t have the huge impact on the environment of the battery-operated, petroleum based, mainstream toys.  And, these are toys that will grow with your child, not be tossed after a few months when the batteries run out and they lose interest.  Not to mention the health risks involved with some of these toys. With all of the recalls and the whole lead paint incident I think it’s really important to know what your children are playing with and what the teeny tiny ones are putting into their mouths.  Also, the “dumbing down” that those battery operated, no imagination required toys are doing to an entire generation.  Plus, imagine the wonderful silence that comes as an added benefit with toys that require absolutely no batteries.  The only sound we hear is the sound of our daughter’s beautiful little voice as she plays with her dollhouse or her farm animals.  Another benefit? These toys encourage play between parents and children, something that seems to have been lost by the wayside in the hustle and bustle of today’s lives.

One of the online stores we love is Gifted Imaginations.

Gifted Imaginations has everything you need for your child’s Christmas.  They carry everything from toys, games and arts and crafts to furniture and clothing.  They ship fast and their customer service rocks.   I would recommend them to everyone. They have a huge selection of the biggest names in earth-friendly toys and their prices are the best I’ve found.  Plus, they have given Nexyoo members and incredible discount.  Needless to say, I give them 5 daisies.

Shop Gifted Imaginations now for Christmas and use your Nexyoo discount!