When I was growing up, my mom who was an educator (school teacher and later on head of a ‘college’ campus) would insist on only providing her children with educational items. When anyone offered to buy us gifts she would put emphasis on ‘making sure they get some educational benefit from’ whichever item.
I was a tomboy growing up and I was fine with my mum’s system.I mostly played with small soldiers, cars and kites. I was one of the boys hanging with my brothers and cousins, and would ignore my little sister sometimes because she was a cry baby.
For my birthdays my mom would usually buy me books. I think that’s what got me into reading and writing to begin with. During recess when I was in primary and secondary school I used to rush to the library to grab a new book. When I was at college I would drag my then best friends to the library. While they sat to read their science books, I was browsing the international newspapers or English Literature shelves.
I’ve gained quite a lot of knowledge about a lot of things. I’m not boasting, just stating some facts. I know a lot about a lot and I continue to itch for more information. That’s probably why I’m keen to go back to university. Still thinking about what to do but I know it involves a lot of learning.
So when it comes to our son now, the Scientist – a researcher, lover of books and great learner – and I tend to apply a similar system: buy him toys and gadgets that he will get the most benefit from. This means the toys and gadgets must be able to help develop the skills he needs to meet the milestones for a child his age.
We’ve spoken to family and friends about this and they respect that decision. If they’re unsure then they have the option of giving a voucher. So far vouchers have never been offered, and everyone got him presents that are helping him grow. We’re feeling well-supported.
Once in a while we let Curly choose his toys. We take him shopping and ask him to choose something or two. He almost always chooses books, though. He loves his books. At other times he gets to choose a DVD. He loves adventure stories in his cartoons and some of his favourites are Cat in the Hat (the movie) and now this week it’s Tad the Lost Explorer.
I think we’ll continue buying Curly things that help him more than entertain. It’s important at his age that we mix up the tools that we use to help him progress and hopefully catch up with the other children. He’s doing quite well and we’re very hopeful.