Details on "DR. TOY'S SMART PLAY, SMART TOYS"

A child's ability to play does more than provide for fun and diversion; it is critical for his or her emotional and intellectual growth, and teaches everything from social skills to analytical thinking. Stevanne Auerbach, Ph. D., has dedicated a lifetime to the importance of play and gives you specific advice on which toys to buy and what kind of games to play to empower your child's overall development.

Dr. Stevanne Auerbach's new book, "Dr. Toy's Smart Play Smart Toys: How to Raise a Child with a High PQ* (Play Quotient)" is an ideal gift for a new parent or one with older kids who's interested in expanding their child's interests and play opportunities. What Dr. Toy has created is a simple, easy-to-follow guide for selecting age-appropriate toys or play opportunities for your child or grandchild that addresses specific needs of children at different stages of their development. Dr. Toy is not some "ivory tower" sort of child psychologist whose experience is learned from books. She is practical, down-to-earth, and a seasoned mother and grandmother. She explains, in lay terms, the role of play in developing a well rounded, resilient child. She helps parents understand a child's developmental stages and what's needed at each one: how to direct a child's play into new areas; how to use toys wisely; how to purchase smartly; and why playing together helps strengthen relationships between parent and child. I loved this book and recommend it for all parents, especially new ones.