When giving gifts, they used to say it's the thought that counts but in these austere times, it's really the cost that's counting. That puts most parents into quite a spot because, in most cases, toy-crazed kids don't care about "the thought," they just want what they want. But how should you get that special child a good gift? One that isn't too expensive, isn't too cheap, one they'll like, and one that'll last. We went shopping today for answers.
Keith Swift Reporting,
Choosing Christmas gifts for her three year old pair of twins Camella and Camille was easy for Priscilla McCulloch but for most parents it isn't; choosing a gift is a delicate balancing act between price and quality. For Ayesha making the choice is practical. She wants good and sturdy toys for her two sons but she's also keenly aware of her budget and the likelihood that the toys she buys probably won't make it past Boxing Day.
Ayesha, Mother
"It is not a matter of the price, it is the thought that counts. So I would buy something which will last long no matter what you buy, those pickney will break it up. It doesn't matter if you buy a $300 car or a $10 car, the same day they will break it up so it doesn't really matter the price, the thought counts."
Another mother we met is Jacqueline. She is searching for one good toy which will last and which is within her budget.
Jacqueline,
"I just ask him what he wants and let him make the choice and I go out and see if I can afford whatever he asks for."
And for that gift that fits her child and her budget - Jacqueline turned to the experts at A&R's Toyland and so did we. Earlett Lino is a supervisor and she advises parents to spend a little more now and it will save you more later.
Earlett Lino, A&R
"We recommend to try and the most suitable, the one that will last. Like I said before, educational toys are the best ones but if you have extra cash you could buy something extra that they could just dash around the house."
And today that meant dolls for the twins at the check out counter.
