Looking for toys? Here's the criteria of the Hall of Fame

"The National Toy Hall of Fame is part of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, N.Y. The Hall of Fame accepts nominations from the public year round, but to be inducted, a toy must be approved by historians and educators with background and appreciation of learning and play. Nominees are rated in four categories, though they don't have to rate highly in all four to get in: Icon status: Toys that are widely recognized and respected"

"A good toy is one that is fun for your child and suitable for age, developmental needs and personality. Generally, it also has one or more of the following qualities. Inspires active play: Kids need to do something push, pull, dissect, build with a toy. If the toy does all the work, then it loses its appeal after the first half hour."

"That is the reason kids so often destroy mechanical toys. Is sturdy and well-made: Shoddy toys only frustrate, encouraging kids to destroy, not create. Lends itself to more than one use: Toys that are designed to be played with in only one way inhibit imagination and creativity. A simple cardboard box can become just about anything your child wants it to be (house, car, store counter, boat, bed), and it can be pushed, pulled, crawled into, driven or painted. Challenges but doesn't frustrate: A toy should be just on the margin of the child's growing capacities."

The National Toy Hall of Fame, part of the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, N.Y., accepts public nominations year-round and requires approval by historians and educators. Nominees are evaluated on icon status, longevity, discovery, and innovation, though high ratings in all categories are not required. Suitable toys are fun and match a child's age, developmental needs, and personality. Strong toys inspire active play, are well-made and durable, support multiple uses to foster imagination, and present challenges that are achievable rather than frustrating. These qualities support creativity, learning, and sustained play over time.

Read at www.ocregister.com