All parents go through a phase where little Susie has acquired a large collection of toys that begin to take over the room where they are stored. And if you have them in your living room, it can be really embarrassing when a guest sits on a couch and screams … because Susie left her toy cell phone on the couch!
It goes without saying that a toy chest helps solve these storage problems. In fact, the use of storage containers and shelves teaches children to take care of their belongings and helps them cultivate habits of neatness.
But what are the options for those looking for innovative toy trunks that serve beyond their functional use. Well, there are many, as long as you are willing to put in some time and energy.
Functional toy chests: If you are one of those who would love to buy something that lasts until little Susie is no longer little and is ready to leave the house, you can buy functional toy storage boxes that serve as a stool, such as a bookshelf, or some other functional purpose. Once Susie is over her need for a toy box, it can be repainted to suit the home décor.
Toy Organizers – And if you want Jamie to understand and appreciate the different sizes and shapes of his toys, you can purchase a toy storage organizer that will help him sort, order, and then organize his toys. Easy, an interesting way to introduce the math of shapes and sizes, isn’t it? This organizer has shelves with different storage containers. Some of these storage containers have handles for your child to take with them for a picnic.
A toy box that is a bench and a xylophone: Children interested in music are sure to appreciate toy boxes that also double as a musical instrument. On the outside it is a xylophone, but on the inside it can be used to store toys. With a little adjustment, this turns into a bench!
Other Functional Toy Chests: Of course, there are the usual wooden toy chests that double as a child’s bench. These come in different styles and designs. You can choose a wooden toy storage box that looks like a fire engine or boxes that can be stored on top of one another.
As stated above, the options are plentiful, if you are willing to put in some time and energy. But not all toy boxes are the same.
Warning Emptor:
Some 20 million Chinese-made toys were recalled in 2007, citing safety hazards. These toys were painted with lead paint and other hazardous substances. Unfortunately, the nightmare of cheap products, made from substandard products, has also flooded the manufacture of toy trunks. Before buying a toy chest, be sure to check that the paint used is safe for children. While you don’t have to go crazy for safety standards, it certainly helps to be a bit cautious.