Haugen’s Tech Tips Blog

TRUCE (Teachers Resisting Unhealthy Children’s Entertainment) has released its 2008 Toy Action Guide, just in time for the holidays.

In their own words,

This guide is intended to help adults promote children’s creative and constructive play by making informed choices about toys, and by working with others at home, school, and in the community to promote positive play and toys.

The guide includes indispensable  tips for  how to shop for toys, what to look out for in terms of toys that promote violence or stereotyping, and ideas for toy alternatives, including their wonderful “shoebox gift” ideas.  The guide may be freely downloaded and shared.  While on the site, be sure to check out their other resources.