2004 Best Classic Toys Welcome Page

Each year at Toy Fair there is a display that celebrates the past. This year there was a display of classic toys from the which marked a nostalgic look back to the history of favorite toys and the changes in toy industry (see Dr. Toy's Toy History Timeline). This museum also houses the Toy Hall of Fame. celebrated its 101st anniversary this year marking both the old favorites, the basics, and the newest products.

Dr. Toy also visited the historic during the International Toy Fair. She saw their extensive, marvelous collection of toys, especially the largest collection of EP Lehmann Toys in the world. You can obtain the new book Moving Times (E.P. Lehmann Patentwerk - History of a Toy Factory by Helmut Schwarz / Marion Faber) that traces the history of the company with many photographs of the collection. During our visit we were pleased to note the support given by the formerly of Germany, now based in the USA, who donated pianos to the play area of the Nurnberg museum for all children to enjoy.

Certainly we can easily remember the fun of the toys we played with as children. We want to share those toys now with our children and grandchildren. Fortunately many toys from the past are still available today.

Dr. Toy has carefully surveyed the toy marketplace to collect a range of great classic toys. These are the winners of "Dr. Toy's 2004 Best Classic Toy Product" search. For each product there is provided an evaluation description, photo, specific product information such as age range, cost, how to locate the consumer information service of the manufacturer, and some history of the company.

When your child has gotten tired of the latest fad or last season's hottest toy, where do you turn to find a product that is long-lasting? What toy did you find fun in your childhood? What toys will hold your child's interest?

Now you can have fun today and turn back the clock. You can still find those fun nostalgic toys that have remained "hot" and are still the "great" playthings since they were first introduced ten years ago or more. The classic toys are the lasting favorites of all children who have played with them. These are the toys that with the passing of time have become "true classics." Many great classic toys are as much fun today as they were ten to fifty years ago or more. You will find among the winners the classic “Sew and Sew,” Dot to dots books, Triazzle puzzles, I Spy, Mummy Rummy, Shamwich or Gavitts Stock Exchange games and other great items like the ABC blocks, Tree Blocks, Etch a Sketch, or Calculator Cash Register. You can share the fun of these toys with your child and they will experience some of the fun things you did as a child.

What is a classic toy? These are toys that are enduring. They encourage your child's involvement, are "child-powered", and of course fun. There are many favorite playthings you can recall playing with as a child, including jacks and ball (Dr. Toy's favorite), jump rope, paper dolls, kites and marbles. Anyone who has ever tried a Hula Hoop will find it's a great challenge to swirl a colorful plastic hoop for exercise. Great way to exercise now! You can also select the famous Frisbee and/or Aerobie.

Classic toys are toys you return to from your own childhood. You can recall the fun by just closing your eyes for a few moments and you will see your favorite toy. Imagine the time you played with a Yo-Yo, Etch-A-Sketch, or Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head. These are among many great toys that have become classics and never go out of style. Your child will enjoy the Triazzle or “Where the Wild Things Are” large floor puzzles.

So if you are at a loss for an appropriate toy check out “Dr. Toy's Best Classic Toy” list. You will find products that your child will enjoy. They will also find these toys entertaining and educational. These are toys that have met the test of time. They have endured, entertained and satisfied children for many years. These are the toys that will continue to please for many years to come. Explore for yourself and find out what all the excitement is about. Then, make some of your own excitement by finding just the right product for your own child. The product may be something everyone can share like a game or an activity.

If the toy is older than you are, perhaps your parents first shared that toy with you when you were young. They wanted to give you something special. You can enjoy the nostalgia of the past, and carry on a family tradition that may span several generations when you find that special classic toy for your own child. Having fun is what it's all about.

Remember to look for Classic Toys throughout the year. Here are some great ones that Dr. Toy recommends in 2004. These are wonderful products to introduce to your child anytime. Be sure the product best fit your child's age and readiness.

Let Dr. Toy know how your child likes these “Best Classic” toys after you observe your child at play. Don't forget to join them when you can and have fun together.

Let's play!