Anatex Wall Panel Toys - Perfect for Everywhere Kids Go

Anatex Wall Panel Toys

If you are looking for toys that can withstand being in a high traffic area, or just one that will last more than a few years, you may find that your search is a bit difficult. You want to be certain that you purchase the absolute best—something that can engage a child for hours, teaches vital skills, will last for a long time, and isn't going to come apart or have pieces that will easily become lost.

There are plenty of toys on the market that can grab the attention of a child for a few minutes. Some of them hold educational value; others, not so much. Most of the toys you can buy are not very durable—certainly not enough to hold up to years of constant play or multiple children. And many of them come with numerous pieces that are difficult to keep track of.

Anatex wall panel toys are the solution to your problem. These toys, made in the U.S.A., have long been a favorite of kids. Often found in the waiting rooms of doctor’s offices, you have no doubt seen at least one child so engaged by an Anatex toy that he or she was unwilling to go home—perhaps even one of your own kids. Take, for example, the Anatex Mirror Sculpture Maze Wall Panel. The back panel of the toy is lined with nine concave mirrors, which produces of fascinating visual effect images growing larger and smaller as the child moves naturally while playing. In front of those mirrors are beads on four different tracks—much like the rollercoaster bead and wire toys you are familiar with, only this time they are mounted on the wall! Who wouldn’t want to spend hours with this toy?

When Anatex designs a toy, they do so with educational value in mind. They firmly believe in the power of play to teach. One of their wall panel toys that clearly demonstrates this commitment is the School House Wall Panel. This wall-mounted, wooden school house has an abacus for practicing counting skills, alphabet learning game for letter recognition, and spinning gears. The abacus will encourage the youngest of children to count the beads, while older kids might use it to practice their addition and subtraction. The letter blocks come not just with the letter, but a picture/word which starts with the letter, helping children recognize both the visual letter and the sound it makes. The gears introduce children to the fundamentals of mechanics and physics of motion in a fun manner.

If you are planning to use toys in a high-traffic area, or you like the idea of passing down heirloom toys, you need to be certain that you purchase a highly durable toy. All Anatex wall panel toys are made from quality materials. Take, for example, the Anatex City Transportation Wall Panel. Each of the transport items—a boat, a school bus, fire engine, and more—are crafted from wood, just as the panel itself is. Children’s hand-eye coordination, visual tracking, and sensorimotor skills will be challenged as they navigate the vehicles around the panel.

Many toys require that you keep track of various pieces—without all the pieces, the toy no longer functions. Anatex wall panel toys are self-contained. Look at their Busy Train Activity Panel. This toy is designed for multiple children to play with at once and it has many moveable pieces. However, none of these pieces can be detached from the panel itself. That means no searching for pieces. It also means that your toy will forever be functional. 

If you would like to purchase an Anatex wall panel toy for your classroom, office, or home, visit AKidPlace.com. We have a wide selection of Anatex items for you to choose from, most of them shipping for free within the United States.

U.S.A. Made Toys – Gifts They Will Cherish for a Lifetime

Savvy shoppers looking for holiday gifts that little ones will cherish for a lifetime will find what they are looking for in high-quality toys that are made in the U.S.A. Whether you are looking for a tried and true classic or the latest in creative innovation, here are just some of the things that you can count on when you look for that “made in America” symbol:

1. Safety. American quality means rigid standards for safety, from the design of the product to the choice of materials. Buying American means you can count on toys that are safe and wholesome, not to mention fun.
2. Environmental responsibility. Many American manufacturers are upping their standards when it comes to factory emissions, as well as producing toys and other items from recycled and/or sustainable materials. Eco-conscious caretakers can feel comfortable about making the right choices, both for kids and for a sustainable future.
3. Fun! High-quality American toys are built with today’s kids in mind. Vivid colors, friendly characters, and exciting activities keep kids stimulated while helping to build important social and motor skills.

These top-rated toys for all ages can turn the New Year into an exciting new adventure with indoor and outdoor fun:

Mason Corporation Flying Turtle

It may be cold and windy outside, but inside, the winter looks brighter than ever with the Mason Corporation Flying Turtle sit-and-skate scooter. These popular ride-ons are perfect for indoor and outdoor play, with polyurethane wheels that won’t mar floors and a sturdy design that provides hours of wholesome, safe thrills.

Anatex Deluxe Mini Play Cube

The Anatex Deluxe Mini Play Cube is an award-winning classic that even the youngest little elves will enjoy this year. With multiple play stations, this compact cube can be used by several children at once, helping them to develop hand-eye coordination and increase their fine motor skills; alphabet and counting activities also boost brain power. This all-time favorite is perfect for home, day care and waiting room settings.

Berlin Pee Wee Flyer Wagon

The Berlin Pee Wee flyer offers a down-size alternative for the popular full-size model. Sturdy and tip-resistant, this classic favorite will provide hours of safe, wholesome fun – great for picnics, the beach, or just a spin around the block with a favorite toy, doll or even pet. Rubber tires and an extra-long handle mean easy pulling, so little ones can take charge of their own playtime as they race from one escapade to the next.

Beka Train Table                                        

Perfect for boys, girls, and even their grown-up friends – this beautiful hardwood maple train table should be on every holiday wish list. The Beka train table is created with imagination in mind; all that is needed is the creativity of a child. Built to accommodate most model wooden train sets, the raised sides of the table keep toys where they belong. When playtime is over, trains and accessories can be stored in optional wooden trundle drawers that slide underneath for out-of-sight storage. 

Zither Heaven Cherry 5 String Banjo

Designed with kids in mind, the Zither Heaven Cherry 5-String Banjo will appeal even to seasoned players with its sturdy craftsmanship and quality sound. Develop cognitive and fine motor skills as children learn to strum out a tune with this beautiful, American instrument – comes complete with a songbook and tuning pins.

Where to find quality made-in-the-USA toys, games and other holiday gifts

Holiday shopping was never easier – you can find everything you need for all the little ones on your list at A Kid Place. Let us help you make this holiday season the best ever, with carefully sourced toys, infant and toddler furniture, and much more. Finish your shopping easily online, and you can relax and truly enjoy all that the season has to offer this year.

Choosing Toys for Children

Choosing Toys

Toys don't have to be expensive. After all, cardboard boxes in the backyard and measuring cups in the sink are favorite standards. But when you do need to purchase toys, you may find it helpful to know what toys to choose and which to avoid for children of different ages.

Infants & Toddlers

Infants and toddlers learn about the world through their senses. They are interested in the sight, sound, smell, texture, and taste of things. Objects that can be squeezed, dropped, poked, twisted, or thrown are sure to cause delight. Toddlers also enjoy any item that can be stacked, poured, opened, closed, pushed, or pulled.

Preschoolers

Preschool children learn by doing. They are busy developing new skills. They like drawing, painting, and building. They also spend a great deal of time pretending. Dress-up clothes, pretend "props," and puppets are big favorites. Preschoolers are energetic and active. They need large balls to roll and throw, wagons to pull, and tricycles to ride.

School-age Children

School-age children feel more grown-up and love activities that lead to "real products" such as jewelry, "designer" T-shirts, or stamp collections. They also develop a keen interest in sports and enjoy having adult-like physical equipment such as softball gloves, tennis rackets, or skates. They have a better understanding of rules and enjoy playing with others. Board games, cards, or dominoes teach math concepts and problem-solving skills.

In addition to choosing age-appropriate toys, it's also a good idea to get several sets of popular toys. Young children often have difficulty sharing. Toddlers simply do not understand the concept and preschoolers have very limited skills in trading or negotiating. Have several play telephones and a ball for each child to make the day go more smoothly.

Before you buy. . .

You will be spending money and time choosing and buying toys. Here are some questions for you that can help you get going on the right track with toys and equipment:

• Will children of different ages enjoy it?
• Is the toy durable? Will it last?
• Is the toy safe?
• Can the toy be used in a variety of ways?
• Does this toy encourage cooperation or does it encourage aggression or violence?
• Is it easy to clean?
• Can I buy a more useful toy for the same money?
• Do I need more of these for the number and ages of children in my home?
• Do I have something at home that is similar and for the same kind of play?
• Is this item essential? Can it wait?

Toys and Safety

More than 120,000 children are taken to hospital emergency rooms each year for treatment of toy-related injuries. Evaluate toys for the children in your care from the standpoint of safety. The following are some guidelines:

• Choose toys appropriate to the child's age. Some toys intended for children more than 3 years old may contain small parts which could present a choking hazard for infants and toddlers. Toddlers should never play with anything that is smaller than a half dollar.
• Think BIG when selecting toys, especially for children under age three. Big toys without small parts can be enjoyed by youngsters of different ages. Keep toys intended for older children, such as games with small pieces, marbles, or small balls, away from younger children.
• Keep uninflated balloons out of reach for children under age 6 and discard pieces of broken balloons because of the choking hazard.
• Explain and show children the proper use of safety equipment such as bicycle helmets. Studies show that helmets can reduce severe injuries from a fall.
• Check all toys periodically for breakage and potential hazards. Damaged toys can be dangerous and should be repaired or thrown away immediately.
• Store toys safely. Teach children to put toys away so they are not tripping hazards. Periodically check toy boxes and shelves for safety.

Toys to Choose - Toys to Avoid

NEWBORN TO 1 YEAR
Choose: Brightly colored objects Pictures within view but out of reach Mobiles that have objects attached with cords less than 12 inches long Unbreakable toys that rattle or squeak Washable dolls or animals with embroidered eyes Stacking ring cones Tapes or records with gentle music	Avoid: Toys with parts smaller than 1 1/4 inches (about the size of a half dollar) Toys with sharp edges Toys with detachable small parts Toys with toxic paint Toys with cords more than 12 inches long Stuffed animals with glass or button eyes Balloons Push and pull toys
1 TO 2 YEARS
Choose: Books with cloth or stiff pasteboard pages Non-glass mirrors Take-apart toys with large pieces Blocks - foam, plastic, or cardboard Nested boxes or cups Musical and chime toys Floating tub toys Pounding and stacking toys	Avoid: Small toys that can be swallowed Toys with small removable parts Stuffed animals with glass or button eyes Toys with sharp edges Balloons
2 TO 3 YEARS
Choose: Play dough Large crayons Pegboards with large pieces Low rocking horses Sandbox toys Soft balls of different sizes Cars or wagons to push Simple musical instruments Simple dress-up items like hats, scarves, shoes Sturdy riding toys Books with rhymes, pictures, jingles	Avoid: Toys with sharp edges Toys with small removable parts Small objects such as beads, coins, or marbles Electrical toys Lead toys Tricycles with seats higher than 12 inches Riding toys used in hilly or inclined driveways Balloons
3 TO 4 YEARS
Choose: Dolls with simple clothes Balls of all sizes Nonelectrical trucks, tractors, trains Building blocks Toy telephones Dress-up clothes Sturdy play dishes Plastic interlocking blocks Blunt scissors Play dough Washable markers, large crayons Sewing cards Simple board games Books Simple puzzles	Avoid: Electrical toys Lead toys Flammable costumes Toys with sharp edges or small, removable parts Riding toys used in hilly or inclined driveways
4 TO 5 YEARS
Choose: Building blocks Simple construction sets Modeling clay Nonelectrical trains, battery operated toys Puppets and puppet theaters Finger paints Stencils Board and card games Simple musical instruments Small sports equipment Bicycles for 4- to 7-year-olds with 20-inch wheels and training wheels (all should wear bike helmets) Books 9- to 24-piece puzzles	Avoid: Toxic or oil-based paint sets Flammable costumes or ones that can be easily tripped over Kites made of aluminized polyester film (this material conducts electricity) Electrical toys (unless battery operated) Shooting toys with darts with pointed tips Fireworks of any kind Lawn darts
5 TO 8 YEARS
Choose: Construction sets Sleds, roller skates Sewing materials Simple cameras, film Printing and stamp sets Paints, colored pencils Sketch pads Kites Battery powered electrical toys (Underwriters Laboratory approved) Jigsaw puzzles Dominoes Board games Simple tool sets Dolls Magnets, magnifiers Simple calculator Bicycles (24-inch wheels)	Avoid: Kites made of aluminized polyester film (this material conducts electricity) Shooting toys and toys with loud noises like cap guns Fireworks of any kind Sharp-edged tools Electrical toys run on household current Bike or skateboard riding without helmets
8 TO 12 YEARS
Choose: Hobby materials Arts and crafts materials Musical instruments Sports equipment Camping equipment Construction sets Electric trains Bicycles (26-inch wheels for kids 10 and older) Models	Avoid: Fireworks of any kind Air rifles, chemistry sets, darts, and arrows (unless with parental supervision) Bike or skateboard riding without helmets

Reprinted with permission from National Network for Child Care - NNCC.

Kidkraft - The Top Name in Kids' Wooden Furniture and Toys

Founded in 1968 by a team of engineers, Kidkraft is synonymous with quality, durability, and eye appeal. Kidkraft produces a unique line of heirloom-quality wooden children's furniture and toys that is proven child-safe and designed to last. At affordable prices, parents can outfit their children's bedrooms and playrooms on any budget with classic or whimsical furniture and accessories, with engaging toys that help little ones to develop important skills. Here are just some of the quality products Kidkraft has to offer.

Kids' Furniture

• Tables & Chair Sets - Choose from a variety of classic designs, with natural wood finish or bright, primary colors; your children will love these table and chair sets that are just their size.

• Toddler Beds - Adorable toddler beds in classic styles or whimsical designs, like Kidkraft's Princess and Fire Engine beds, are perfect for helping your toddler transition from crib to "big kid" bed.
  

Storage and Accessibility

• Step stools - Help your child get hard-to reach toys or books, and make hand-washing and tooth-brushing easier with Kidkraft's sturdy step-stools. Most stools are equipped with a handy storage bin under the top step - store bath items, toys and more.
  

• Toy Boxes - Get rid of the clutter in the family room or play room and teach your child to clean up with kid-safe toy boxes and bins. Designed to prevent pinched fingers and other injuries, Kidkraft toy boxes meet or exceed the safety recommendations of the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
  

• Bookcases - Build your child's library and keep books neat and organized with wooden bookcases made to complement any décor.
  

• Clothes poles - Coats, hats, sweaters, and more have a place on Kidkraft's attractive clothes poles - help your child develop independence and responsibility for keeping his or her room neat and clean.
  

Toys and Pretend Play

• Toy Kitchens - Kids love pretending to whip up a feast or a batch of cupcakes for friends and siblings with these beautifully designed, colorful and realistic toy kitchens.
  

• Train Tables and Train Sets - Girls and boys alike will spend hour after hour creating, playing, and rebuilding with wooden train tables and train sets. All tables are compatible with Thomas the Tank Engine and Brio trains.
  

• Art Easels - Your little Picasso will feel like a real artist with a free-standing art easel, with accessories, from Kidkraft.
  

• Educational Toys - Age-appropriate wooden educational toys can help your child develop important motor and cognitive skills. All toys are non-toxic and lead-free.
  

• Vanity Tables - Adorable Kidkraft vanity tables are perfect for your little princess or superstar.
  

You can find all of these fantastic Kidkraft products, along with hundreds of other quality kids' items, right here at A Kid Place.

Guidecraft 4 in 1 Dramatic Play Theater awarded 2010 Product of the Year

Guidecraft’s awesome 4 in 1 Dramatic Play Theater has been awarded with the 2010 Kids Product of the Year award by Creative Child Magazine.

4 different play arenas for children in one beautiful package for years of fun pretend play

The Guidecraft 4 in 1 dramatic play theater has a honey-oak stained wood theater frame which holds interchangeable panels that quickly and easily create a different dramatic play world.

Theater comes with two separate panels with different themes on either side to set the stage. Simply slide one of the panels into the grooves in the back of the theater and lock into place, and voila, kids have a brand new setting to inspire great, educational pretend play.

Themes include: Post Office, Puppet Theater, Doctor’s Office and Diner.

Kids will delight in the colorful details of each theme and explore their creative side with hours of constructive dramatic play.

Now available Here at A Kid Place. We strongly recommend ordering this one before the holiday rush starts.