Save on Children's Toys

You don't have to spend a fortune on kids' toys - crayons and paper will keep your kids engaged for a while and they'll use their imaginations and creativity. Clay, water colors, a deck of playing cards, board games, and word games are low-cost, engaging toys for your child.

The worst time to buy toys is during the holiday buying season. For example, buy children's skis in May and swim fins in January. Buy when no one else is for the best prices.

Kids have an attention span that can be measured in nanoseconds so, naturally, they'll get bored with most toys and games. Create a 'Toy Swap' network and move the goods from house to house.

Here's a good tip for parents of younger kids: after birthdays and the holidays, stash some gifts away before the child becomes attached. Then, bring out a new toy or game every month or so.

Computer and console games can set you back some serious money. Garage sales, tag sales and consignment shops often sell these games at one-tenth the price and they work just fine.

Before you rush out to buy your teenager the hot new computer game, rent a copy at the local video store. Maybe you'll get lucky and she'll decide "It's sooo boooring!" Rent it, don't spend it.

Don't discard your coffee cans when they're empty. Use them to make toy stilts! Poke holes (with a can opener) on either side of the can and thread a jump rope through and they can walk on the cans while holding the jump ropes.

Scan the classifieds for used bikes, swing sets, wooden play sets, above-ground pools and other larger playthings. Often, the owners' will give these things away if you disassemble and remove them.

Does your infant check brand labels when given a new toy? Probably not. Skip the high-priced baby toys. Keep it simple, safe and save some money.