Classic toys top the Santa list

Classic Toys

top the Santa list

Educational Enjoyment

Learning toys are popular during Covid

Story by GALEN HOLLEY

Educational toys, especially puzzles, are big items on children’s Christmas lists this year, according to local retailers.

Ashley Weaver at Pure Bliss Gift Shop and Boutique in Pontotoc said that trends this year reflect the cultural circumstances.

“Covid has changed things with people’s toy choices, and we’re seeing that puzzles are popular because people are staying home more and it gives them something to do, as well as offering parents a chance to teach,” said Weaver,

In addition to gifts for “tweens,” like Stephen Joseph luggage, as well as plush animals by Ty, Pure Bliss carries the popular Melissa and Doug toy line. The toys are traditional wooden toys re-imagined. They’re conceptualized by a Connecticut couple who draw inspiration from global issues like peace and

eco-friendly living. The toys have bright, vibrant colors and often portray real-life scenarios that kids see their parents involved in, like kitchens and grocery stores, as well as broader-concept, educational toys, like world map puzzles.

Toy trends this year reflect the growing realization, reemphasized by Covid, that play isn’t simply a diversion but an important part of psychological and social development, according to Weaver. Melissa and Doug toys are visually appealing as well as instructive.

“Their price points are really good, and they’re great educational tools,” Weaver said.

Derby fans will notice that a Melissa and Doug puzzle of the United States shows a horse on the state of Kentucky. The old Space Shuttle at Cape Canaveral represents Florida. The Golden Gate Bridge stretches across California. Each state shows something indicative of its history and culture.

Melissa Campbell at True Value Home Center in Pontotoc also sees play as an essential aspect of children’s development, and her selection reflects a traditional appreciation for classic toys with a note of educational, real-life insight.

“Parents might consider delaying buying their child a phone this year and letting them engage in imaginative play for a while longer,” said Campbell. “Many of our toys, including Melissa and Doug, provide opportunities to make learning more fun.”

Campbell’s display at True Value looks a bit like the Small World at Disneyworld, cute dolls everywhere.

“In addition to our larger, lifelike toddlers and newborns, we also carry a line of smaller, softer dolls which are easier to carry and love,” said Campbell. “All of our dolls are high-quality and intricately dressed but still playable and very affordable. All are priced under $100.”

Toys indicative of life across the South are also available at True Value, like barns and farm sets, along with John Deere items and old fashioned Radio Flyer wagons.

“The right toys will keep children active,” said Campbell. “It will fuel their imaginations and bring out their individual personalities. Put down your phone and play!”

Pure Bliss Gift Shop and Boutique is located at 243 W. Oxford St. in Pontotoc. Call (662) 489-4775 or visit their page on Facebook. True Value is located at 155 Hwy. 15. Call (662) 489-7440.