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Online Toy Shopping

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Toys

Some experts consider play time to be work for children, a critical part of their development. As work, kids need the right tools to get the job done well: good toys. We've selected some helpful Web sites that can teach you the importance of "child's play" and how to equip your kids with safe toys that will keep them happy, engaged, and active.

Choosing Toys for Children

Finding great toys for kids isn't exactly rocket science but it does take some thought. The age, ... read more »

Online Toy Shopping

If you’ve ever tried to navigate a toy store with children in tow, you understand the pleasure of buying toys online: no lines, no parking hassles, no trips to the bathroom, and best of all, no whining. Whether you’re shopping for your kids, someone else’s, or yourself, the following Web sites can help.

Dulcinea's Insight

  • When shopping online, make sure there is a padlock icon on the lower right of the browser (indicating a secure connection) before entering any personal or financial information. Also, look for Web site addresses that begin with “https” rather than just “http.” The “s” stands for “secure” and won’t typically appear until the checkout process. For more tips about becoming a savvy online shopper, visit our findingDulcinea Shopping Web Guide.
  • Before doing business with an unfamiliar online company, check its reputation with an organization like the Better Business Bureau, which works to protect consumers from fraudulent business practices.
  • National chain stores such as Wal-Mart and Toys “R” Us all maintain Web sites where you can purchase toys, but don't limit yourself to the large franchises. The Web site for your favorite “Mom and Pop” toy store can be less overwhelming and may carry some items that the big box stores don’t.
  • You might not be thinking about buying an outdoor toy when winter is setting in, but doing so could save you some money. Brick-and-mortar stores have to clear their shelves to make room for inventory that's in season, but that's not an issue for online businesses, where you’re more likely to find an off-season bargain.
  • Not sure what to buy? Gift cards may be your answer. Most toy store Web sites sell gift cards and you'll probably even get free shipping when you order one.

Dulcinea's Picks

For online toy stores …
Toys “R” Us is packed with toys available for purchase, but you shouldn't have any trouble finding something specific. Toys are sorted by type, brand name, age group, character, and even customer favorites. Check the "Clearance” category for bargains, and even create a baby registry at this site.
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Wal-Mart is very similar to other online stores with the categories of toys it offers, but it also features a "Creative Play" section full of toys meant to spur a child's imagination. Review the "Customers’ Top Rated Toy Products" page to see what other customers like best in each category.
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Amazon.com now operates its own toy section after years of partnering with Toys “R” Us. The site adds "Toys for Girls" and "Toys for Boys" to its categories of available toys and has a "Most Gifted in Toys" section to showcase popular items. For a toy that might be a little less mainstream, browse the "Specialty Toys" section for categories like "Collectible Toys," "Hobby Heaven," and "Ultimate Gameroom." Many but not all of the site’s toys qualify for free shipping.
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KBtoys.com sells video games and an array of other toys. Find an especially large selection of electronic and collectible toys, and preorder some toys not yet available publicly.
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Who knew?
The USA Toy Library Association (USA-TLA) is a national network that promotes toy lending libraries across the country so that kids have a chance to play with new and different toys without the usual expense. The TLA aims to educate parents and children about finding and selecting safe toys, and also teaches about what toys offer the most play value. Go to the “Online Resources” section to sign up for membership with the TLA or order some of the publications available (prices range from $5 to $20 for TLA members, double for nonmembers), or search for a toy library in the directory.
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Specialty Toy Stores

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