There are times when I worry I am depriving my child of happiness and/or hindering his developmental growth because I haven’t flooded our home with brightly colored playthings, toys or contraptions that wiggle, shimmy, shake and light up while playing a happy tune. I look at other new moms with their Einstein toys dangling off their diaper bags, plastic links on the carseat and a variety of (honestly) pretty fun looking things at their house and I wonder, am I doing Ryder a disservice by not buying into the latest crazes in child development? Is laughing at mom’s goofy faces and reading Beatrix Potter enough for this (nearly) 4-month old? He seems happy enough, but is he being “challenged”?
Lucky for me, I don’t have to worry too much. My friend Tanya has a 9-month old daughter, which means our kids are just enough a part in age that Ryder is ready to take her hand-me-downs just as she’s moving on. The latest: Tanya brought over a cradle swing (complete with spinning mobile that often times mesmerizes Ryder to the point where I have to swing it away and bring him back to reality) and a playmat. I had my doubts on both pieces of gear (hence we didn’t buy our own), but Ryder seems to like them both. Right now he just lays on the mat and looks up at me, but the toys will be there for him to tug on when he’s ready.
Which brings me to my point of this post: I’ve come to the conclusion that no, it’s not 100% necessary to buy all the bells and whistles … but if you can find a friend who’s just as happy to get their big baby things out of their house as you are to borrow it – go for it. Ideal Bite just did a great email about hosting a Toy Swap so you can do just that. Or, check out a local consignment shop. Reuse!
