1. Does the toy do what it says it should do?
This is pretty straightforward, but strangely enough it’s often overlooked. If the packaging incorrectly advertises a toy, it is not only dangerous, it is also illegal and should be reported. In your opinion, did the toy do what you thought it would do?
2. Is the toy suitable for the age it advertises?
An age guide is exactly that, a guide to what age the toy can be used. For the toy review, be sure to include how age appropriate this guideline was for her own children.
3. Is the toy of solid construction or does it break easily?
If the toy you’re reviewing survived your child’s first tantrum, then other parents will want to know about it. Likewise, if the parts discolored quickly with or without added water, if the parts fell out without too much effort, or if the toy broke on impact when it was thrown across the room in a fit of rage when it was time for bathroom, these are of the utmost importance. The durability of toys weighs heavily in a purchase, as no parent wants to buy a toy that only lasts a day.
4. What variations/selections/options are there?
If the toy comes in different models, colors, shapes, or sizes, that’s good to know, especially since many parents like to buy blue or red items for boys and pink or purple items for girls. Some toys come with additional options, such as a doll that urinates and drinks, while others have multiple uses that are not advertised, such as cards that can be used for “Snap” and “Memory” games. Oftentimes, parents looking to buy toys online in a hurry may not realize the potential of some of the simplest toys.
5. What are the extras/costs related to the toy you are reviewing?
This is probably one of the most important areas: the things that no one tells you about. Knowing if the toy drains batteries so fast that it needs a 24/7 recharge to support it is definitely helpful. Also, it is good to know in advance if there are any necessary accessories that you need to purchase to make it work, as this will incur additional cost. If the accessories are optional, mentioning whether you think they are reasonably priced will also help.
6. Does it require assembly?
Trikes, bikes, scooters, and cars all come in flat toy boxes, making it impossible to believe there will be no assembly, unfortunately. No one likes building toys, but it’s a necessary evil, so mentioning it in your review will go a long way. Include how easy it is to assemble, how long it takes, and if you need help from someone else to do it.
7. Is it good value for money?
This is a rather personal question, but it’s good to mention it. The value is interpreted differently, depending on the buyer; however, if many parents who write toy reviews feel that a toy is overpriced, the manufacturer or distributor may need to consider something. Generally, a parent who is happy with the toy will be happy with the price he paid. The value in this sense is how effective the toy was in calming and entertaining his child, which, as we all know, is priceless!
8. How did your child react to the toy?
Most parents don’t consider a wonderful toy that is durable but remains a novelty for only a day or week a good buy. If your child thought the toy under review was wonderful, but only for one day, that’s also worth mentioning along with his or her thoughts on why it might be that way.
9. Try to rate it out of 10.
Everyone can relate to a number of 10. Generally, 1-2 means that the toy is pretty useless and not worth it at all; 3-4 not much better than 1-2. 5-6 means the toy has potential, though it’s probably not a good buy if it’s an expensive item, and 7-8 is a good indicator of a stable toy that provides a decent amount of entertainment value.
Naturally, 9-10 is what every parent wants their online toy purchase to be: the perfect toy to keep their kids entertained and intrigued for hours at the best price available.
