Imagination at play

Knights and babies. On one level, I could point out the similarities of boys and girls, because when they're playing with these toys of choice, the both are really just playing with dolls. Of course, that's a pretty simplified observation, because if you listen to the "conversations" the kids have while interacting with these toys, you realize just how different they are.

While AJ's imagination takes him to jousts and sword fights between knights and dragons, Sydney tries to comfort her baby who apparently doesn't want to take a nap. She first rocked the baby, then brought her to me for help. As she handed over her small charge, she cautioned, "be gentle."

I've said it before, but let me repeat: the best toys are the ones that somehow inspire their owners' imagination. This is especially true with AJ who would happily evolve into a couch potato if I let him. Every so often we stumble on a toy that apparently presents so much potential for fun that AJ, without realizing it, is happier seeing himself in the middle of that adventure, rather than seeing Sponge Bob in the middle of his latest mis-adventure.

Hooray, or rather, Hoozah!, for Playmobile and their knights.