Remember, children aged 8 and up can begin to use electrical and battery-operated toys. Check tape recorders and battery-operated toys regularly for loose or exposed wires. Don t allow children to change batteries. At this age, children enjoy team sports and games that require increased dexterity such as pick-up sticks, marbles and jacks. Strenuous physical activity is also popular for this age group.
Children begin to develop hobbies and a strong interest in scientific activities.
For these children, appropriate gifts include computers, microscopes, table and board games and outdoor and team sports equipment. Ensure that older children s toys are kept out of reach of younger children for whom they may present a danger. A gift is not complete unless the proper protective gear is included. Bicycles, in-line skates, scooters, skateboards and sleds are also popular gifts for the holidays. However, without the proper protective gear or skills, injury and death can occur.