Toys for African-American tots - Brief Article
Author: Ebony

DESPITE the uncertainty of the times, Christmas and Kwanzaa 2001 should be loads of fun for good girls and boys. Why? Because this year there is a wide variety of books, toys, games, action figures, high-tech toys and videos aimed at African-American children, and because experts say every effort should be made to provide a normal and traditional atmosphere for young people.

Technology is having a strong impact on children. Industry experts note that more than 60 percent of American households with children have computers with Internet access. High-tech and educational toys for infants and preschoolers and computer and video games are especially strong sellers.

Innovation and electronics are leading predictors of stronger sales this holiday season. In fact, one of the top-selling toys this year is the Super Soaker Triple XP, which was created by Black inventor Lonnie G. Johnson, a former NASA rocket scientist.

Robotic pets, scooters, electronic dolls and talking books are predicted to propel sales upward this year, and the good news is that many of these innovative products are available and are marketed to African-American children. The only question left is what to buy the child in your life. Top toy retailers offer some friendly tips to eliminate the returns:

1. Make sure the toy is age-appropriate. Toys that are too advanced can frustrate children. Select a gift that children can play with now, not one they will have to grow into.