One of the common problems is that many popular toys are derived from television or films programs. Whatever might be fashionable for one month could be old-fashioned the next when a new action figure arrives. A popular television series or cartoon might be accompanied by a wide range of merchandises such as clothes, stickers, books, or even snacks.

Children display an extraordinary degree of tenacity when it comes to asking parents buy these products. It’s all very well for those who can afford to indulge their children with expensive things; but for parents with a limited budget or even for middle class family, it may not always possible to buy all the latest toys. Trying to teach your kids about managing money and instilling a sense of control is an important part of being a good parent. Kids need to learn that they can’t have everything they want without putting an adequate amount of effort first, although explaining this to your child may not be easy. Keeping a child entertained doesn’t have to be expensive. We may laugh at memories of how children were laugh in the past, but maybe we often forgot how it incurs a great expense. Many of the old games and pastimes have been forgotten in a haze of computers, consoles and television. Just remember that game consoles have only been around for less than two decades. People might reason that keeping children entertained has always been costly, but at least technology seems to fall in cost as it improves in quality. Further, there are many excellent multimedia educational packages available today which will become cheaper as time goes on. Parents who are not familiar with latest electronic devices, have some alternatives to keep their children amused. These are a few examples:

• Dressing up box for dolls, All families should have a dressing up box. It contains tiny outfits for soldiers, Indians, nurses, and cowboys. Children, especially girls, love putting on adult clothes on little dolls, especially dress, wigs and hats.

• Papier mâché, All you need is paper, water, flour and a little glue. You can shape many things you want, which then can be painted.

• Face paints, These are often available from toy shops or joke shops. Children may spend hours painting their bodies and faces, and they’ll find it even more entertaining if you allow them paint yours.