Top 5 Ways to Save Money on Toys

Is it that I've gained, or did someone put the economy in the dryer on high? It's feeling a bit tight!

Whatever is going on in the world, we all understand that childhood comes but once. We want our children to have rich and happy childhoods, no matter what. We want to be able to offer them great toys, we want them to attend birthday parties, and we want them to have fun. So what can you do when money is tight? Whether you are shopping for birthday gifts, something to make a trip go a bit better, or just planning ways to keep the kids busy this summer, we've got ideas that we will help you save money on your toy purchases.

Consider a group present for birthday parties - It's true that all children are different, but I can't count how many times I've attended a birthday party only to watch the birthday girl or boy quickly become overwhelmed by the number of new things they were presented with, each gift needing and deserving hours of attention. Although it might take a bit more planning on your part, having multiple guests give one present that will be truly appreciated can not only save money but will also make for a less overwhelming and less stressful party experience.

Make a budget and stick to it - Decide what you can afford, and then take only that much in cash with you when you shop. That sounds obvious, but how many times are we swayed by kids who want that next better one? Paying with cash can help them understand the finality of it. Money isn't magical - I have a $20 bill, and that's all I have. We have to find something that fits what we have. So you save money while imbuing a habit for a lifetime - living within our means. Now there's a gift that your children can use!

Consider organizing a toy club - This works mainly for babies and toddlers, but it can work wonders for them. This takes about 4-8 families with similarly aged children to work well, although if you have good organizational skills it could be bigger. Each family has an agreed upon number of toys that they contribute to the club, while they are participating in it (your toys remain your property). It works best if that number is equal to the number of families in the club, so that, for example, in a 4 family club everyone puts in 4 toys. About each 4 weeks, clean and sanitize the toys, get together, and swap, so that the sets of toys rotate among the families. When you get your own toys back, you might consider rotating a new set in. Toy rotation can also be practiced in your own home, but what a cost savings to do it this way! Make it a play date and everyone will look forward to this special day.

Take your time to find the right toy - Take the time to pick out toys that are durable, open-ended, and age appropriate. I emphasize that last point because often we are influenced by what our children may have seen on television or at a friend's house, etc, but if that toy is not developmentally appropriate for our child at this point in time, then it may well end up being a complete waste of money. Once a toy is relegated to a corner because it's either too complex to figure out or too simple to hold interest, it's unlikely to come back out, even when the child is ready for it.

Shop your local, independently-owned toy dealer - This tip really brings all the others together, and it is ultimately the one that makes them all possible. Where else will you find someone who can find the right gift at the right time at the right price? They will spend the time necessary to shop with you. Rather than pointing you to one section of a giant store, "Toys", instead you will be presented with nothing but toys, each carefully selected by an expert in toys and child development. Compare prices, and I suspect you'll be pleasantly surprised at how affordable your local toy store is.

So yes, the economy is very tight, if not downright recessive. But we buy toys because we love our children, plain and simple. Keep your toy buying plain and simple, too, and you'll still be able to help your children have great playthings without breaking the bank.