Fanatic Fads

According to charts by The National Toy Manufacturers Association, toy sales through last year were flat from the year before. Many parents may be questioning the stats though. From millennium Barbie to beanie babies, to Harry Potter, to Pokemon, the list of kid’s “must have’s” seems endless.

“There’s something about it that doesn’t make me ever want to put it down,” said Jason, 10, when speaking of a Harry Potter book.

Many parents are eager to buy into the game. The fad du jour is the Harry Potter books.

“The fact that the kids love it, this is a blessing. It’s great,” said Melanie King, with regards to the books.

One parent’s blessing is may be another’s curse. The buying frenzy can get costly.

Kids often dive in head first wanting to collect them all. Until...they get bored with today’s fad in search of tomorrows.

Experts said the fast changing toy fads can become habit forming for a child.

“I think you do have to look at a child who goes through fad after fad and feels like they have to have all of every single of sort of fad,” said Dr. Laura .

What Parents Should Know

One Beanie Baby... leads to two Pokemon.. leads to three Harry Potter..Ah! Your child obsession with the toy du jour is spiraling out of control. What does a parent do?

Experts said the answer is plain and simple. Teach your child moderation. Experts said that this could be a prime opportunity to instill the importance of keeping a balance in all aspects of life.

In a time when “more is better” syndrome is running rampant through many peoples’ minds, the fanatic fad episode is no different. Setting limits for your child will force them to understand that more...more..more has to stop somewhere.

While they discouraged going overboard with fads, keeping a child entirely out of the mix isn’t suggested either. A child prohibited from taking part may feel left out and parents should find the middle ground. By setting limits, parents can ensure that children learn the importance of moderation, while still allowing them to take part in the fun.

Once again, moderation prevails. It may sound like a simple answer, but telling your child “no” to “just one more” may be a challenge for many parents.