New Winter Sales Flyer Starts Jan 1st! 2008

https://www.discoverytoysinc.com/eco/ws08_brochureUS.pdf
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
or email me for a flyer of your own!@ Michele
203-672-0681

Discovery toys can help!

Discovery Toys Can Help! Understanding autism, selecting the right toy to help, and understanding how to use it.
For 28 years, Discovery Toys has focused on learning through play, delivering countless products specifically designed to maximize learning moments across age groups and skill categories. The most effective learning environment for any child is one tailored to that child’s specific needs at each stage of development.
Discovery Toys has interfaced with the famous Princeton Child Development Institute to develop our Autism Support Project. It is our goal to deliver a rich educational experience by understanding the most commonly shared learning difficulties for children with autism and matching our products to support learning. Children with autism tend to experience several broad areas of significant difficulty.
Look for the following symbols throughout our online shopping cart to find products that help support learning in these areas.
Toys to develop independent play with some limited instruction.Children with autism often have difficulty playing independently. They need toy choices that can be enjoyed following some initial instruction. Often memory recall can be an issue, as can the inverse, excessive repetition.
Toys that promote sustained engagement.Building up the length of time that any child focuses on an activity is important and great products facilitate this skill building.
Toys that build skills for cooperative play.All children have to be taught to cooperate with peers. For children with autism, the temptation to reside in a world of their own is very common. Awareness and necessity to share, communicate and take account of others’ actions can be built with great toys.
Toys that create opportunities for children to talk about their play experience. Verbalizing the play experience is a vital step in the learning process that actively supports skill development and academic and social progress. It is important that you understand and make use of open-ended questions to foster conversation.
Toys with obvious completion criteria.The ritualistic and repetitive behavior often seen in children with autism may deprive them of understanding when a task is completed, thus missing an essential sense of accomplishment.
Toys that encourage pretend play.
Some children find pretend play comes naturally, others need to be shown how to develop make-believe games, and children with autism tend to be among those needing a little help!
For more information about the Autism Support Project, contact your Educational Consultant. If you need help in finding a Consultant, click on www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681

Discovery Toys is so much more than toys or books. They open up a world of learning for children, building skills for school success and life enrichment. We are THE Educational Toy company and are partnered with Hasbro, Do-Re-Me & You!, and Autism Speaks. Every child should have at least one Discovery Toy, the most popular educational toys in the world for 25 years. A variety to choose from, toys, games, books and software promoting positive play through every stage! * Expanded Do-Re-Me & You line with fun stuff like the Frog Backpack, Stacking cubes for 123 Octopus & Me, and 10 in the Bed finger puppets.* Exclusive items from Hasbro Toys, including a vintage Chutes & Ladders. 70-75% of all the toys are under $20 They have a LIFETIME guarantee, yes LIFETIME If you are missing parts you can just purchase new parts They promote family time!!! They promote learning!! They get your kids away from video games!!!! Fall catalog arrived September15th! With 50 new products!!No lead paint, no recalls, no worries - our products go through a 7 point safety inspection process before they are released from our warehouse. As part of that, DT checks 1 toy from each pallet that arrives - there is no way your child's safety will ever be compromised with Discovery Toys. Along with our lifetime guarantee, our product stands head and shoulders above the rest in the toy industry! Great toys, books, music, and games that have been designed and created to make educational products that are FUN, AFFORDABLE, and EFFECTIVE for children of all ages! If you are looking for...... Educational toys that offer fun and learning Music and Movement products that will get your kids up and moving Games for the entire family The right toys for a special needs child Discovery Toys can fulfill your needs plus more. Visit today and Discover the Fun with Discovery Toys!
Play with your children...it's the best investment you'll ever make!Children that grow up with DISCOVERY TOYS® products are independent thinkers, good problem solvers, imaginative, self-confident, strong learners and adventurous. Share in those many magical moments of learning... and fun... with your child, and you both will reap a lifetime of rewards.Shop from our Fall/Winter Catalog! Request yours today. Visit www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
fshngqueen@aol.com
203-672-0681
We also have a flexible home business with many rewards that you can test drive for $25!!!

You can help Discovery toys Autism Donation Program!!

YOU CAN HELP!
DISCOVERY TOYS AUTISM DONATION PROGRAM
Make every dollar count…
For every dollar donated through Discovery Toys Autism Support Program, we will donate a matching value in retail toys to a selected Autism support organization. (Discovery Toys is finalizing the relationship with a prominent school for autism research and intervention programs).
Here’s how it works:
you can add your cash donations to their party purchase.
Important Details:
Discovery Toys will ship up to $10,000 retail value of products to the selected organization.
Donations will be accepted through December 31, 2007.
Orders under $60 US/$70 Canada with Autism donations on them will need to be phoned, faxed or mailed to be processed.
Donations are not included in tax and freight calculations.
Because these donations are being made through Discovery Toys as a third party, they are not tax deductible. The advantage to the customer is knowing that in addition to her donation, the selected organization will be receiving a donation of product from Discovery Toys equal to the amount collected.
Donations do not count towards Hostess Reward or PSV for Compensation Plan, rewards and incentives.
Shopping Cart will not be able to accept Autism donations.
Copyright © 2006-2007 Discovery Toys, Inc.
Make it a great day and call me now with a donation!!!
Michele 203-672-0681
http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

HELP RAISE MONEY FOR JONNY'S ANGELS!!!

By a toy from me at www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti and the proceeds go to Johnny's angels. You must call me for the order and then I can mail the check out to them! Check out their website!! www.johnnysangels.org.Call Now and make a Difference 203-672-0681!!! You can help children!!!

Come Christmas and holiday shop!!

There is so much for everyone !!! vistit www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

or call me with an order at 203-672-0681!

The 2007 Discovery Toys Fall Line has been Launched!

There are 50 new products in the new fall line. WOW! Check out my website at http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti to see the full product line and currant specials! Happy Fall!
Michele Marchetti

Double DIP on Sept 15, 16 and 17th

The Discovery Toys FALL Season begins on September 15th. The full new product line will be online at www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti then. But there's more! The Spring Catalog is in effect until September 17th, so for 3 days you can order from both products lines. WOW!And STILL, there is more! The Countdown to School sale features some discounted Fall items that are available through September 17th at a reduced price. Now is the time to order those.Forget the etiquette rules that ban Double-Dipping. :) That's the best thing you can do for your family RIGHT NOW!
call 203-672-0681
Michele Marchetti

Discovery toys Group Manager Michele Marchetti [partners with Friend of Autism Adults

Check out their website. If you order from me you will get a tax write off and I will send you a reciept and I will send them 15% of the proceeds made from that sale. http://www.autisticadults.com/fap.htm
Just call me with an order and I will write a check out to them. allso anyone who holds a party for Sept and or Oct I will give them 15% of the money made from the party. Cal me nopw and help an autistic adult who really needs it! 203-672-0681
http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
About Friends of Autistic People
Friends of Autistic People is a parents' support group dedicated to raising awareness of services and supported living arrangements needed for autistic adults and searching for help within public, private and state organizations. We have support meetings, lectures by experts in the field, and we recently produced a Connecticut Access TV special on the needs of autistic adults. We welcome contributions.
By building our membership base to a critical mass, we ensure our voice will be heard within the community and the state legislature. We encourage participation by families of children of all ages. Professionals within the field and other supporters of our cause are invited to join as well.
Friends of Autistic People was founded in 1997 by Brita Darany after her daughter, Vanessa, was discharged from the Greenwich Association of Retarded Citizens group home because they did not have the staffing to support someone with profound autism.
Brita Darany, founder of FAP, with daughter, Vanessa
When autistic children reach the age of 21 most services stop for them, and appropriate placements are just not available. The profoundly autistic may find themselves in institutional type settings where they are kept sometimes for the rest of their lives.
The higher functioning autistic adults get even fewer services and often are taken care of by their aging parents. For example, in a nearby town there is a 44-year-old autistic woman who is incapable of living independently and is still being cared for by her 87-year-old widowed mother. Is she going to end up as one of the homeless roaming the streets when her mother passes away?
Another example is a non-verbal autistic adult male who lived in an inappropriate home for the retarded, whose complaints went unnoticed by the inexperienced staff. He finally ended up in full panic in the wrong ward of the local hospital where staff did not know how to communicate with him. And there are many other similar cases.
Autistic children have recently been noticed and through legislation and private funding many services have become available to them. Autistic adults, however, are completely forgotten.
FAP is the only charitable organization in Connecticut that advocates appropriate services for the entire spectrum of autistic adults. Our goals are to assure that adults with autism will have appropriate residences with trained staff and suitable work programs matching their abilities so that they can become contributing members -- rather than burdens -- on society. We are a parents' support group that searches for help within public, private and state organizations and we intend to use funds generated by us to augment services provided by others. Currently there are about 300 parents and professionals in our organization and we keep growing.
As a young organization we have already achieved a lot. We have been awarded non-profit 501(c) (3) status, and six nationally well-known authorities on autism have become advisors to our organization. In addition:
The Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) has committed to set up the first group home in Connecticut exclusively for autistic adults.
We have gotten media exposure for the purpose of motivating legislative bodies to create legislation and funding of programs for adults with autism.
We co-produced a TV Special on the special needs of autistic adults.
Political personalities have taken notice of FAP's activities and expressed their support of our cause.
Greenwich Hospital assigned a Liaison Officer to FAP.
Please give us a call at 203-661-8510 or send an email to bridaranyi@aol.com and we'll be happy to tell you more about Friends of Autistic People.
Interested in supporting our cause? We welcome contributions of any kind.

New fall toys

#1342
SLEEP, LITTLE ONE
$17.99 US /
$22.99 CN
This beautiful book and CD set is a tour of 15 lullabies in 10 languages from around the world. The sepia tone photos of breathtaking babies in the book are accompanied by the lullaby lyrics and thoughtful reflections on parenthood. The book also includes space for a parent’s own treasured memories of the time. SLEEP, LITTLE ONE is a perfect ‘new baby’ gift!
From Birth & Up
#1345
ABC & 123 WIPE CLEAN WORKBOOKS
$9.99 US / $12.99 CN
Preschoolers will learn numbers and letters quickly with these two wipe-clean activity books that promote early printing skills and encourage number and letter recognition, sequencing, matching, and observation skills. The wipe-off pages build self-confidence with multiple opportunities for practice and the occasional “do-over”. Plus, each book has over 100 stickers that foster eye-hand coordination and enhance visual discrimination. With engaging activities on every page, and 2 books that siblings can share, ABC & 123 WIPE CLEAN WORKBOOKS are a great addition to the family library!
From 3 Years & Up
#2873 FASHION FRIENDS
$29.99 US / $39.99 CN
Construction toys are widely known to aid in development of logical thinking, sequencing and spatial awareness, key elements for success in math and science. With FASHION FRIENDS, girls will spend hours developing those important skills while enhancing imagination and socialization. Plus, with over 200 possible combinations, girls also internalize the math concept of combination calculation over and over again. The make-up free FASHION FRIENDS offer the big eye look so popular in other dolls but provide an alternative choice to dolls with over-done cosmetics. A convenient plastic storage case and enough pieces for 4 dolls make FASHION FRIENDS a perfect set for siblings and BFF’s!
From 4 Years & Up #3146
FLIP TAC TOE
$19.99 US /
$24.99 CN
It’s tic-tac-toe to the extreme! FLIP TAC TOE combines the strategy of chess with the simplicity of checkers for the 3-in-a-row payoff of the classic. On each turn, you have four options: place one of the foam chips on any open spot; stack a chip; move a chip or stack; or flip a stack over. The game board changes with each move, promoting flexibility and adaptation skills. Plus, conceptualizing moves ahead of time refines strategy and planning skills, while holding multiple game options in your head at the same time expands the brain’s processing power and aids in choice making. A variety of game play options are included for players with different skill levels. Be sure to demo Flip Tac Toe with 1-2 quick games (quicken the game by omitting the “Move” option for playing the chips), and customers will instantly be hooked.
From 6 Years to Adult

Posted by Kenza Bolton, Discovery Toys at 9:53 PM 0 comments



Monday, September 3, 2007
Sneak Peek at Fall Items
Take a look at some of the products that will be coming in the Discovery Toys Fall Line starting September 15th, 2007. You can easily get these products for FREE when you host a fall party with me! Call today to book your Discovery Toys party. 866-891-5056

#1286
JANGLES
$14.99 US
Baby will be captivated with the bright colors and interesting textures of JANGLES, the cute and colorful plush giraffe loaded with activity play. With a tummy that squeaks, feet that rattle or spin, hands with jingling rings or a teether to sooth, JANGLES introduces cause and effect as babies learn their actions produce sound or sensation. The different textures help baby distinguish a variety of sensations and intensity of sensations, important for later differentiating between hard and soft or hot and cold. JANGLES easily attaches to a stroller, backpack or highchair keeping baby’s exploration easily in reach!
From 2 Months - Toddler #3253
SCHOOL DAYS
$24.99 US (on sale for $19.99 through 9/17)
A school days photo frame and memory keeper in 1! Saving and showcasing school memories is easy with the unique, school bus shaped SCHOOL DAYS Album, designed for use as a photo frame. Individual headshots for Preschool through 8th grade are slotted onto the spiral bound front cover, with space for class photos attached inside. The pages include slots to store progress reports and class work as well as space to write in memories. As kids record their personal bios they improve memory recall and communication skills. Children also learn about how they and their world change as they move from one school year to the next.
For Parents
#1530 SUNSHINE MARKET
$24.99 US (on sale for $19.99 through 9/17)
Sort, match, fill and spill with this imaginative market! Fill the shopping cart with fun food shapes and friendly grocers, then sort them by color or match them into shape blocks or the market’s open/close doors. When the fun is done all 12 shape pieces store in the cart inside Sunshine Market.
From 18 months – Preschool
#1287 COUNTDOWN RACER
$39.99 US (on sale for $31.99 through 9/17)
Toddlers get on track for math, reading, language and thinking skills with this rockin’ roadster! It can rev, take off and return. It counts in 7 languages, plays 10 melodies and has 10 musical notes for original toddler tunes. Requires 3 “AA” batteries not included. 12" x 8" (30cm x 20cm).
From 2 years – Preschool#3534
THE BRAIN GAME
$29.99 US (on sale for $23.99 through 9/17)
Fast paced, trivia laced fun for the whole brainy family! Race to the brain answering questions from 7 categories: History, Geography, Science & Nature, Arts, Popular Culture, Sports & Games and No Brainers where the answer is always in the question! A 3-D brain with lights and sound picks your category, you pick the difficulty level. 2-4 players can play a long or short version.
From 9 years to Adult
#1341
GO GO CATERPILLAR
$14.99 US /
$19.99 CN
Whether crawling, waddling or running, toddlers will strengthen gross motor muscles and thinking skills with the colorful easy-to-use GO GO CATERPILLAR. As youngsters discover they can vary the distance traveled by adjusting the force applied down on the caterpillar, they learn cause and effect, trial and error, and predictability. The rattling beads in the wheels provide additional auditory stimulation, and GO GO CATERPILLAR also sports ABC and 123 for early letter and number recognition.
From 9 Months - Toddler

#2277
AHOY, PIRATE PETE
$12.99 US /
$16.99 CN
Similar to our wildly popular ONCE UPON A TIME title, AHOY, PIRATE PETE is a change-the-story book that encourages creative storytelling, language and imagination development as children select the direction the story takes on every page. The many different story possibilities keep the book fresh and new, retaining the interest of both the child and parent! Slipping the die-cut pieces into the designated slots on each page exercises fine motor skills, and those die-cut pieces can also be used to make up new stories outside the book. Story time can become a family adventure as family members each have a turn choosing the outcome on the different pages!
From 4 Years & Up
#2073
TECNO®
$29.99 US /
$39.99 CN
TECNO® is creative tool play that appeals to both boys and girls AND extends across a wide age span. Younger kids will enjoy experimenting with the 4 included tools to tighten or loosen the assortment of screws and bolts, refining their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination in the process. Older children can express and develop their creativity by constructing one of the 2-dimensional designs shown in the included booklet or design their own. And then, with the special L-shaped brackets, they can build up, producing 3-dimensional creations, fostering skill in spatial relationships. The portable storage case doubles as a building base and stores all 80 pieces.
From 4 Years & Up #3144
QUICK CALL
$12.99 US /
$16.99 CN
QUICK CALL is a fun, fast-paced, category card game for the whole family. In this easy to play game, a common card is revealed. Everyone looks through their personal card stack to find 2 more cards that have something in common with that card. But you need to QUICK CALL the common attribute before anyone else: they’re all sports; or they’re cold; they all have pockets. Keeping multiple attributes in mind at one time boosts brain processing power and aids in memory recall. As children try to link the objects by attributes, they enhance their ability to categorize and to understand the relation of parts to wholes. And as young players learn objects can be described by more than one attribute, they enhance creative thinking and vocabulary skills.
From 6 Years to Adult


Playskool Joins the Discovery Toys Family
Starting September 15th, a name you know and trust, PLAYSKOOL, will be a part of the 50 new products that will be in the Discovery Toys Fall Line of products. Playskool was founded nearly 80 years ago by two schoolteachers who were searching for toys that could help their children more easily grasp early learning concepts--the very idea that learning and discovery come naturally through various play experiences.

Better Kid Care: Play is the Buiness of kids!

BETTER KID CARE: PLAY IS THE BUSINESS OF KIDS

Better Kid Care Project
Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension

Copyright/Access Information


Table of Contents
The Importance of PlayM
From Birth to...
Play Is Fun
The Home
Young Children's Play and Toys
Types of Play
Toys
A Short Course On Play And Playthings


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


THE IMPORTANCE OF PLAY
From an Adult Viewpoint....
It often seems that all children do is play! They play until they are five or six, then they go off to school and start to learn. They play until they are big enough to really begin to do things. So it seems to grown-ups.

From a Child's Viewpoint....
Play takes on a very different meaning. Play to a child IS learning! They learn to play and play to learn. Play is terribly important to a child. It is not a distraction. It's not something they do to take up time. It's the child's life.

At birth the infant is a pioneer setting forth to explore a very new and very strange place. She does not know how the world works. She does not know that when you drop something it goes down, that balls roll, or that things far away look smaller than they really are. Infants are born beginners in life. They have to set about learning everything! And learning everything about everything!!

Not only does the newborn not know these worldly things, she doesn't know that she can learn to do the things she needs to do to get along in the world. She doesn't know that she can learn to turn over, sit up, walk, feed herself, dress herself, ride a bike, be a friend, or even talk.

But she does learn all these things - and she learns them in the four or five years before she goes to school.

We know that the young child learns more sheer practical knowledge during the early years than at any other time in life. In these early years, the young child is finding out what the world is like. She is exploring her abilities to cope with it.


FROM BIRTH TO....
The young child sets out to meet her needs, to explore and do. At birth her five senses are working. At first she has little muscular control over her body. By the end of the first year she has begun to coordinate the use of her eyes and hands and will soon be able to go everywhere on her own two feet.

The young child is curious, and that curiosity is never satisfied. She throws herself into the business of learning. Through her experiences with things, she learns the nature of common materials. She works at doing simple things. She "tries out" and "tries on" much of what she sees and hears in make-believe play. She makes the learning a part of herself.

By the time a child is five or so years old, if all has gone well, she is on first-person, first-hand terms with her immediate surroundings. She knows what common things are like, what they will do, and what she can do with them. She has learned these lessons in the best possible way - through play.


PLAY IS FUN
It is also vitally important. She must learn if she is to grow and thrive.

Young children do not learn in the same manner as older children do. Young children learn by actual contact with real objects, events, and people. (That's why field trips, outdoor play, and other exciting activities are so important.)

A child learns by involving himself, all of himself, in exploring, discovering, repeating, and by continually adapting what he sees into his daily life. He learns to talk by learning the name of the object he holds in his hand, and describing the activity he is engaged in.

The young child is not yet prepared to learn by words alone. The child does not learn by explanations or descriptions of things that are far off in time or space. She is learning words, their uses and meaning in the situation at hand. Because the young child can repeat words so easily, it is easy to be fooled into thinking that she understands what she is talking about. It is easy to be fooled into thinking that the young child has grasped the meaning behind the words.

We need only try to read a page of words in a foreign language to realize that words alone do not have meanings. Someone once said that words are like empty cups. It is only through varied, first-person real life experience that words are filled with meaning for the young child.


THE HOME
The home, your child care home, affects the child, her play and her learning. For play to result in good learning, the child must first participate in the varied life going on around her, and then she must have a chance to try out what she learned for herself.


YOUNG CHILDREN'S PLAY AND TOYS
"Let's go play!" "What can we play?" "Come on out and play!" These are some of the familiar and frequent cries of children. It seems impossible to think about childhood or young children without also thinking about play. Play and playing are vital parts of children's lives. For children, play is life itself.

Through play, children learn how to learn and how to do things. Play is learning, trying, being, and feeling. Children learn many things about themselves, others, and the world through play. They learn concepts, relationships, cause and effect, sizes, colors, textures, feelings, emotions, sensations, sounds, symbols, and language among other things.

Play is not something that children do just because they don't have anything better to do. Play isn't just taking up time or filling the endless hours of childhood with meaningless activities that keep kids from bothering adults.


TYPES OF PLAY
Children's play behavior can be grouped into a few categories or types and is related to the materials and tools of play. These categories often overlap and are highly interrelated. Any given play behavior could fall into several play types. For example:

QUIET PLAY
Quiet play is likely to be encouraged by picture books, bead-stringing, pegboards, puzzles, doll play, coloring with crayons, etc.

CREATIVE PLAY
Creativity has a broad meaning and play of this nature includes many things, such as painting, drawing, problem solving, music, dancing, getting along with others, play dough, sand, collage, the use of imagination, etc.

ACTIVE PLAY
Active play can be stimulated by the use of balls, slides, swings, push-pull toys, sand and water play, games, crates and blocks, riding tikes and bikes, running around, climbing trees, and the use of indoor materials like rhythm band, bean bag toss, "dress-up" clothes, cars and trucks, etc.

COOPERATIVE PLAY
Play that requires more than one person, such as ball games, tag, see-saws, playing dolls or house, block building, some swings, hide and seek, etc.

DRAMATIC PLAY
Dramatic and creative play may also be called social play. In this type of play, children try out different kinds of life roles, occupations, and activities, such as firefighter, actor, actress, mother, dad, astronaut, dancer, singer, farmer, doctor, nurse, soldier, etc. This play may be done quietly or actively, alone or with others, such as playing with dolls or action figures.

MANIPULATIVE PLAY
Play that involves the use of hands, muscles, and eyes. It helps to develop coordination and a wide variety of skills. Playing with puzzles, crayons, painting, cutting with scissors, stringing beads, the use of tools, block building, dolls, and trucks are examples.


TOYS
There is an almost endless variety of products and toys designed for children. Some of these products are good and some are harmful. But how do you know which is which? The main idea is to try to "pick the right toy for the right child at the right time." Here are a few suggestions that you may find helpful.


CHARACTERISTICS OF SUITABLE TOYS
Ask yourself these questions:

ARE THEY SAFE?
There is no absolute safety against accident or injury, but reasonable precaution should be used. Toys should be selected with great care. Any toy can be unsafe if given to the wrong child, to a child at the wrong age, or when it is misused. A child's safety depends upon the types of toys selected, the way they are maintained and the amount of safe handling taught and practiced in the home.

ARE THEY DURABLE?
Toys are going to be used, mauled, hugged, dropped, thrown, stood on, chewed on, washed, dried, etc., so they need to stand up under normal wear and tear.

ARE THEY APPROPRIATE TO THE AGE OF THE CHILD?
A toy should be selected according to the unique and individual needs, abilities, physical, and emotional characteristics of the child. But, the child should be able to use the toy today! One doesn't buy a twowheel bicycle for a toddler or a crib mobile for a schoolage child. Many toys should allow for growth, such as blocks, which can be used in many different ways over a long period of time.

DO THEY WORK?
Do they do what they are supposed to do? Nothing causes loss of interest as readily as a toy that fails to perform. It often results in frustration, anger, and discouragement .

DO THEY CAPTURE THE CHILD'S INTEREST?
One doesn't have to coax, force or trick a child into playing with a good toy. The play is spontaneous. It should reflect the child's, not the adult's, interests. Toys which can be used for a variety of purposes keep the child's interest longer than those with only one use.

ARE THEY FUN?
That is, are they fun from the child's point of view? Are they for enjoyment now? Can they be used at various ages?

DO THEY STIMULATE CREATIVE ACTIVITY?
Can the toys offer problem-solving opportunities? Do they leave room for imagination? Imagination isn't only concerned with unreal things, but also with reality, and it involves planning, ideas, and creating. Do they teach new skills?

DO THEY INVOLVE INTERACTION WITH OTHERS?
Must the child play alone with the toys or can others such as peers, siblings or adults be involved too?

CAN THEY BE KEPT CLEAN EASILY?
Rag dolls, animals and the like should be the kind which can be washed or scrubbed, or at least have removable clothes which should be laundered often.

ARE THEY ARTISTIC IN COLOR, FORM, AND EXPRESSION?
Avoid ugly or grotesque figures and toys that make harsh, jangling noises.


CHARACTERISTICS OF UNSUITABLE TOYS
Ask yourself these questions:

ARE THEY UNSAFE?
Unsafe toys have one or more of these characteristics: sharp corners, edges, and protrusions; shoot objects; are flammable; have easily lost or broken parts; toxic paint; are poorly constructed; might give an electrical shock; use glass instead of plastic in toy car, truck, or airplane windows, etc.; have detachable parts, like button eyes, that can be put into mouth, ears, nose; have fluffy trimmings that can be pulled or torn off and put into the mouth; are stuffed with toxic or non-hygienic material.

DO THEY OFFER LITTLE OR NO CHANCE OF INTERACTION?
Wind-up or automated toys are a good example. They are poor toys because the child cannot direct the action. Wind-up or automated toys have a life of their own. They go through the same tricks or movements over and over again. Plus, they are often complicated, delicate, easily broken, unrepairable, dangerous, expensive and tend to foster spectator behavior rather than participation and activity.

ARE THEY TOO MATURE FOR A CERTAIN CHILD?

DO THEY APPEAR TO CONTRIBUTE TO MISBEHAVIOR, STIMULATE TOO MUCH EXCITEMENT, AGGRESSION, OR DANGEROUS PLAY?

DO THEY FOSTER VALUES YOU AND THE CHILDREN'S PARENTS DO NOT UPHOLD?

DO THEY CAUSE ANGER AND/OR FRUSTRATION?

DO THEY COST TOO MUCH?


What should be done if a dangerous or unsafe toy is found on the store shelf ? It seems logical that no one would intentionally buy and give to a child a dangerous or unsafe toy. Yet it happens because unsafe and dangerous toys and products still appear in stores.

Here are a few suggestions on how to deal with that situation:

Don't buy it.

Bring it to the attention of the store manager, in a straightforward manner. Make your ideas and opinions clear so the manager understands your point of view. You are a professional caregiver. Believe in yourself and your beliefs.

CHILDREN'S PLAY TOOLS: TOYS
Children of all ages play in many ways with an endless variety of "toys." There is no all-inclusive list of toys or the ways that children play with them. One has only to watch a child at play to realize that well-chosen toys are important to early and healthy development.

Play materials may be divided into a number of groups:

TOYS FOR PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT :
wagon to steer and coast; brooms and shovels; small, but strong garden tools; balls; planks; jump ropes; scooters and tricycles; boxes, ladders, and boards; knock-out bench; and puzzles

TOYS FOR SENSE DEVELOPMENT (touching, hearing, seeing, smelling, or tasting):
water toys, bubble pipes, musical instruments, toy piano, xylophones, sand toys, pegboards, large wooden beads and string, puzzles

TOYS FOR CREATIVE WORK:
clay or crayons and paints, colored paper, children's safety scissors, paste

TOYS FOR MAKE-BELIEVE AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT :
dolls with washable clothes, adult "dress-up" clothes, cars and airplanes, broom, sweeper, mop, dishes, play-store toys

TOYS TO BE USED FOR BUILDING:
blocks, boards, boxes


A SHORT COURSE ON PLAY AND PLAYTHINGS
adapted from Irene Lee

[The following information has been altered from its original format so that it can be distributed electronically. The original chart lists the SKILLS ASSOCIATED WITH PLAY, APPROPRIATE PLAYTHINGS, and WHAT CAREGIVERS CAN DO for each of the age levels.]


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CHILD'S AGE LEVEL: 0 - 18 MONTHS
PERCEPTION: mobiles - hung over the crib about a foot from the baby's eye level, small fish tank placed near the crib, posters - pasted on the ceiling or walls, music boxes, wind chimes, toy mirrors

MANIPULATION OF OBJECTS (mouth play and hand play): rattles, pounding and stacking toys, squeeze toys, teething toys, spoon in cup, floating tub toys, picture blocks, string of BIG beads, stuffed animals, balls

EXPLORATION (pushing buttons and pulling levers): crib-gym exercises, push-pull toys, small take-apart toys, pots and pans

SPACIAL RELATIONSHIPS, SHAPES AND SIZES: nested boxes or cups, blocks, large puzzles, plastic containers of different sizes

COGNITION: books with rhymes, pictures, jingles, records, musical and chime toys

LOCOMOTION: set of building blocks, large dolls, toys to crawl after, pounding toys


WHAT CAREGIVERS CAN DO
Be available to play.
Respond to baby's sounds.
Smile at the baby. Let baby play with your fingers.
Talk with baby.
Play "pat-a-cake" and catch games.
Play "peek-a-boo," "bye-bye," and hiding games.
Make faces in a mirror.
Sing to baby.
Play at "losing" and finding things.
Name objects as you give them to the baby.

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CHILD'S AGE LEVEL: 18 MONTHS - 3 YEARS
GROSS MOTOR: first tricycle, wagon to get into, rocking horse, large balls, outdoor play equipment, push-pull toys

FINE MOTOR: weaving sets, art materials, peg boards, clothes pins for tossing into an open pan, large balls, wheel barrows, sandbox toys, blocks of different shapes and sizes

EXPLORATION: sandbox, child-size play furniture, play appliances and utensils, handmade materials, doll furniture, large packing boxes for climbing in and out

SYMBOLIC REPRESENTATION: simple dress-up clothes, stuffed animals dolls, tea sets

PROBLEM SOLVING: various size boxes, simple puzzles, games, stringing large beads, take-apart toys with parts that snap together, construction toys that snap together

CREATIVITY: clay and modeling dough, blocks, large crayons, non-electric trains, blackboard and chalk, simple musical instruments, finger paints, safety scissors, paper and pencils

LANGUAGE: picture books, children's magazines, tapes of stories


WHAT CAREGIVERS CAN DO
Pretend-play (create a traffic jam with a toy car).
Play tag, bounce, catch, and empty-fill games.
Hide things; "lose" things, and let children hide things from you.
Build something with blocks.
Play "guess what it is."
Tell stories and let children supply missing words.
Reverse roles (you be the child; child be the caregiver).
Play follow-the-leader.
Play guessing games.
Act out stories.
Let children imitate your activities (such as washing dishes and cleaning house).
Notice the child's play and praise efforts.
Help children to classify objects.
Sing to children.
Go on field trips in the backyard.
Take children to library.

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CHILD'S AGE LEVEL: 3 - 6 YEARS
SOCIAL AND INTELLECTUAL: additional dress-up outfits, bathing and feeding doll, puppets and theaters, store-keeping toys, toy phone and toy clock, playhouses, housekeeping toys, toy soldiers, dolls for dressing and undressing, large puzzles, outdoor play equipment, board games

PROBLEM SOLVING: farm, village, and other play sets, small trucks, cars, planes, and boats; beads, blocks, buttons, peg board, simple construction sets, housekeeping toys, trains, race car sets, balls

FORM AND SPACIAL RELATIONSHIPS: simple puzzles, set of plastic measuring cups, large tricycles, sleds, cookie cutters, wagons, scooters, swings, backyard gym sets and jungle gyms, empty cardboard boxes, seesaws, monkey bars, rope swings

CREATIVITY: crayons, children's safety scissors, finger paints, clay, sketch pads, paste, rhythm instruments

LANGUAGE: story books, books on cassette tapes, radio, TV


WHAT CAREGIVERS CAN DO
Reverse roles.
Make-believe telephone conversations.
Play hide-and-seek.
Improvise characters doing routine things.
Practice motor skills with card and board games.
Play games of courage.
Play "counting" and "number" games.
Provide children with the materials and environment needed for good, healthy play.
Do gymnastics.
Mimic animals and people.
Use hand puppets with different voices.
Listen to and talk about dreams.
Tell "what-if' stories.
Act out fairy tales.
Read to the children.
Teach children to identify different sizes and shapes with cookie cutters and baking pans.
Play "matching" games.
Describe activities that are taking place while you are doing household chores.
Encourage children to create stories while looking through books and magazines.

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CHILD'S AGE LEVEL: 6 - 9 YEARS
SOCIAL: board games, tabletop sport games, organized sports, hobby kits, kites, balls, skates, bikes

INTELLECTUAL: dolls, toy typewriter, printing set, racing car, construction sets, science and craft kits, handicrafts, sports and hobbies, books, tapes, puzzles

SPACIAL RELATIONSHIPS (moving confidently through space): large bicycles, ice and roller skates, pogo stick, scooter

CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING: costumes, doll houses, play villages, miniature people and vehicles, magic sets, art materials


WHAT CAREGIVERS CAN DO
Be observant of children's play.
Ask "What did it look like?" and "What did it feel like?"
Play make-believe games.
Build things.
Play competitively at games and play situations.
Improvise imaginary characters and play situations.
Play theater and puppet dramas.
Encourage creative writing and poetry.
Play work games.
Attach names to objects.
Play sandlot sports.
Tell jokes and riddles.
Read to the children.
Let the children read to you.
Help children to organize and clarify things.
Take children to the library.

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CHILD'S AGE LEVEL: 9 - 12 Years
PHYSICAL AND INTELLECTUAL: model kits, crafts, bicycles, rubber horseshoes, pogo sticks, ice and roller skates, grooming and housekeeping toys, rope, ladders, stilts, rackets, chemistry and other science kits, frisbees, magic sets, advanced construction sets and handicraft kits, toy models, puzzles, basketball equipment, building sets, jigsaw puzzles, books, tool benches, computers

SOCIAL: card and board games, checkers and chess, table tennis and billiards, sport toys and games, bats, balls, team sports

CREATIVE PROBLEM SOLVING: puppets and marionettes, drawing sets, workshop tools, costumes, action and career dolls

EXPLORATION: compasses, magnifying glasses, microscopes and telescopes, magnets, bicycles


WHAT CAREGIVERS CAN DO
Play skill games.
Be a referee.
Pose riddles.
Teach magic tricks.
Indulge in nonsense.
Play vehicle games. Ride together on bicycles.
Jump rope together. Build things together. Improvise exaggerated characters.
Play guessing games.
Play make-believe, like going shopping or building something.
Encourage hobbies such as stamp, rock, or coin collecting.
Ask questions.
Play sports.
Call attention to qualities, similarities, and differences.
Read to the children.
Be flexible.
Do science projects.
Grow things - flowers, vegetables.




--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

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DOCUMENT USE/COPYRIGHT
National Network for Child Care - NNCC. Part of CYFERNET, the National Extension Service
Children Youth and Family Educational Research Network. Permission is granted to reproduce
these materials in whole or in part for educational purposes only (not for profit beyond the cost of
reproduction) provided that the author and Network receive acknowledgment and this notice is
included:

Reprinted with permission from the National Network for Child Care - NNCC. (1994). Play is the business of kids. In *Better Kid Care: A video learn-at-home unit* (pp. 3-18). University Park, PA: Pennsylvania State University Cooperative Extension.

Any additions or changes to these materials must be preapproved by the author .

COPYRIGHT PERMISSION ACCESS
Better Kid Care Learn-at-Home Video Project
Penn State University
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University Park, PA 16802
FAX:: (814) 865-3746
Michele Marchetti
Discovery toys Group manager
203-672-0681

Help Raise money for Johnny's Angles!

By a toy from me at www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti and the proceeds go to Johnny's angles. You must call me for the order and then I can mail the check out to them! Check out their website!! www.johnnysangels.org.
Call Now and make a Difference 203-672-0681!!!

August 28- Sept 30th: Why This is the best time to Join Discovery toys!

Make a Real Difference for You, Your Family and Friends!

Now is the perfect time to Launch your own Discovery Toys business!
With a collection of over 130 safe, sensational educational products for kids of all ages, outstanding training and support, and a committed leadership team, you will hold the keys to opening up a world of learning for children and families in your community. And for you!

The rewards are many!

Earn EXTRA Cash!
Earn FREE Toys!
Earn FREE trip for two!
Earn FREE convention!
Earn a Chevy Trailblazer!
Work flexible hours!
Build new friendships!
Have fun while helping kids and families!
Join Discovery Toys Today and SAVE!
Rocket Start Kit
Regular Price $99 NOW ONLY $79 (over $300 Value!)
Kit includes:

Top-selling products for all ages
3 Months FREE personalized web site with shopping cart
Catalogs and business tools
PLUS Bonus Product AHOY, PIRATE PETE

Offer Ends September 30, 2007
Call 203-672-0681 today to get started

A Mystery Charity Party could be what your organization needs!

Do you like to give EVEN more than ever during the holiday season? Do you love helping children who are in need? Let's get your Mystery CHARITY Discovery Toys Party booked for the fall! Contact Michele Marchetti at 203-672-0681 to find out more about this great way to shop from your seat for the children in your life AND give great quality toys to charity at the same time.

It's Time to Think About TOTS FOR TOTS

I am looking for people and organizations who want to help get Discovery Toys products into the hands of children at Christmas through the Toys for Toys campaign. Contact me and I can give you ideas of how YOU can help Toys for Tots. No donation is too small or too large. :) I'm looking for corporate sponsors as well as individual families who want to collect coins to donate. Let's help even more children than we did last year. WE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Call 203-672-0681 to find out about all the programs I have that are designed to help Toys for Tots.

Thank you in advance for your help.
Michele

Countdown to School Sale is ongoing!

Get ready for school with a discount!

Discovery Toys has 7 NEW and fabulous educational items available at a special introductory offer of 20% off from August 15 through September 17. They will be in the new fall line at regular price starting September 18th.
To see and purchase the sale items, go to www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
To find out how to get these items for free, call 203-672-0681

Discovery Toys Has a Quality Promise

Discovery Toys promises that all of our products meet or exceed all standards set by the US and Canadian governments regarding safety. All products are tested for flammability, hazardous materials and toxic elements - including lead, by an independent laboratory prior to shipment from domestic and foreign manufacturers. In an ongoing effort to ensure the quality and safety of our products, we regularly review the labor practices, raw materials and manufacturing processes used by our vendors.

Thank you for choosing Discovery Toys!
Michele
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
203-672-0681

Verbal Skills: How Discovery toys Products can Help!!

Any Discovery Toys product can help with verbal skills, as long as parents and children are playing together. Talk about what each toy does and help children mimic the noises they make. Notice out loud how fast the Push and Go Cart goes or how high the Measure Up Cups can stack.

For children with Special Needs, here are some suggestions on ways to increase verbalization.

Communication skills (which most of us acquire up to 80% through hearing).
• Pictures provide endless possibilities for language stimulation.
BABY SIGNS®,
BUILD A BOOK,
ONCE UPON A TIME,
PROGRESSIVE PUZZLES,
SHINY TOUCHY SMELLY, and
THE WAY I FEEL,
and all book selections.
• Some games also tend to stimulate language because of their action.
A B SEAS®,
A TO Z JR.™,
OPPOSITE PAIRS,
TIMING IT RIGHT™,
UNJUMBLE ,
WHAT’S GNU?™,
WIZ KIDZ, and
Zingo!®.
• And all books provide excellent opportunities for language stimulation.

Lots of positive verbal interaction.
• Many games provide rich opportunities for children to express themselves
in a relaxed and enthusiastic manner.
Some games seem to lend themselves to this more naturally.
6 in 1 PLAY CENTER,
A B SEAS®,
A TO Z JR.™,
ANIMAL TWINS,
DOUBLES WILD®,
WHAT’S GNU?™,
TIMING IT RIGHT™, and
Zingo!®.
• All books provide lots of wonderful things to talk about.
• Music CDs, especially those that are slow and repetitive and deal with everyday topics.
SOUNDS LIKE FUN CD,
DO-RE-ME&YOU BOOK/CD SETS.
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681
http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Music Training 'Tunes' Human Auditory System

Source: Northwestern University
Date: March 13, 2007
More on: Acoustics, Language Acquisition, Perception, Child Development, Intelligence, Neuroscience



Science Daily — A newly published study by Northwestern University researchers suggests that Mom was right when she insisted that you continue music lessons -- even after it was clear that a professional music career was not in your future.

The study, which will appear in the April issue of Nature Neuroscience, is the first to provide concrete evidence that playing a musical instrument significantly enhances the brainstem's sensitivity to speech sounds. This finding has broad implications because it applies to sound encoding skills involved not only in music but also in language.
The findings indicate that experience with music at a young age in effect can "fine-tune" the brain's auditory system. "Increasing music experience appears to benefit all children -- whether musically exceptional or not -- in a wide range of learning activities," says Nina Kraus, director of Northwestern's Auditory Neuroscience Laboratory and senior author of the study.
"Our findings underscore the pervasive impact of musical training on neurological development. Yet music classes are often among the first to be cut when school budgets get tight. That's a mistake," says Kraus, Hugh Knowles Professor of Neurobiology and Physiology and professor of communication sciences and disorders.
"Our study is the first to ask whether enhancing the sound environment -- in this case with musical training -- will positively affect the way an individual encodes sound even at a level as basic as the brainstem," says Patrick Wong, primary author of "Musical Experience Shapes Human Brainstem Encoding of Linguistic Pitch Patterns." An old structure from an evolutionary standpoint, the brainstem once was thought to only play a passive role in auditory processing.
Using a novel experimental design, the researchers presented the Mandarin word "mi" to 20 adults as they watched a movie. Half had at least six years of musical instrument training starting before the age of 12. The other half had minimal (less than 2 years) or no musical training. All were native English speakers with no knowledge of Mandarin, a tone language.
In tone languages, a single word can differ in meaning depending on pitch patterns called "tones." For example, the Mandarin word "mi" delivered in a level tone means "to squint," in a rising tone means "to bewilder," and in a dipping (falling then rising) tone means "rice." English, on the other hand, only uses pitch to reflect intonation (as when rising pitch is used in questions).
As the subjects watched the movie, the researchers used electrophysiological methods to measure and graph the accuracy of their brainstem ability to track the three differently pitched "mi" sounds.
"Even with their attention focused on the movie and though the sounds had no linguistic or musical meaning for them, we found our musically trained subjects were far better at tracking the three different tones than the non-musicians," says Wong, director of Northwestern's Speech Research Laboratory and assistant professor of communication sciences and disorders.
The research by co-authors Wong, Kraus, Erika Skoe, Nicole Russo and Tasha Dees represents a new way of defining the relationship between the brainstem -- a lower order brain structure thought to be unchangeable and uninvolved in complex processing -- and the neocortex, a higher order brain structure associated with music, language and other complex processing.
These findings are in line with previous studies by Wong and his group suggesting that musical experience can improve one's ability to learn tone languages in adulthood and level of musical experience plays a role in the degree of activation in the auditory cortex. Wong also is a faculty member in Northwestern's Interdepartmental Neuroscience Program.
The findings also are consistent with studies by Kraus and her research team that have revealed anomalies in brainstem sound encoding in some children with learning disabilities which can be improved by auditory training.
"We've found that by playing music -- an action thought of as a function of the neocortex -- a person may actually be tuning the brainstem," says Kraus. "This suggests that the relationship between the brainstem and neocortex is a dynamic and reciprocal one and tells us that our basic sensory circuitry is more malleable than we previously thought."
Overall, the findings assist in unfolding new lines of inquiry. The researchers now are looking to find ways to "train" the brain to better encode sound -- work that potentially has far-reaching educational and clinical implications. The study was supported by Northwestern University, grants from the National Institutes of Health and a grant from the National Science Foundation.
Note: This story has been adapted from a news release issued by Northwestern University.

Copyright © 1995-2007 ScienceDaily LLC


http://www.disdcoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Toy Recommendations Based on Your Needs!

Discovery Toys extensive line of educational toys provides for children. Here are some recommended toys. Please email me to answer your toy questions and make any recommendations you desire!

Hearing Skills:
Curly & Pals
Early Twirly
Rolling Reflections
Sunny Sounds
Sonic Sounds
Sounds Like Fun CD

Social Skills:
6 in 1 Play Center
AB Seas
A to Z Jr.
Animal Twins
Hoppity Pop
Net Catch
Zip Track Rally

Communication Skills:
Baby Signs
Build a Book
One Upon a Time
Shiny, Touchy, Smelly
Opposite Pairs
Zingo
Wiz Kidz

Balance & Coordination:
Light Up Lady Bug
Castle Marbleworks
Tangiball
Hammer Away
Balance Buddies

Reading Readiness:
Giant Pegboard
Busy Bugs
ABC Box
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

The Benefits of Music to Your Children!

Discovery Toys offers an extensive line of musical and movement products, Do-Re-Me and You. This line, designed by Kindermusik is AWESOME!!!! Each set has a book and CD with over 60 minutes of music. Some sets also include
Here is great information about the value of music. I got all these facts from www.tesh.com

Studies show that learning to play an instrument has significant long-term benefits for kids. Researchers at the University of California found that kids who took music lessons scored 27% higher on math tests, and 57 points higher on the SAT's verbal section. So why are the musically inclined a bit brainier? Because, according to Canada's McMaster University, learning to play an instrument develops the reasoning and spatial centers in the brain. Music also maximizes brain development in the areas related to language and social skills.

To prove the point, a comprehensive series of skill tests were done on 5-thousand 5th graders. And in every single test area, kids who were learning to play a musical instrument received higher marks than their classmates. And the longer they had been studying music, the higher they scored. The American Music Conference reports that kids who play an instrument are 52 percent more likely to go on to college than non-music makers. And kids who play music watch less TV and are more optimistic. So here's how to get your kids hooked on music. I found this in Prevention magazine.

Be sure to start early. Young kids are fascinated with sound, and as they hear new instruments and rhythms, it sparks the connections between their brain cells, helping them learn faster. So, sign your preschooler up for a music and movement class.

Also, if your child is outgoing, have them play their favorite songs they've learned when friends and family come over to visit. Studies show that when kids show off a new skill, it builds their self-confidence.

You can view and purchase the entire line of music products at my webpage, www.discoverytoyslink.com/Michelemarchetti
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681

Discovery toys has partnered with Hasbro!!

Did you know that Discovery Toys has partnered with Hasbro/ Playschool wow!!
I am so excited that this is happening. Everyone knows playschool and now you can get more stuff at our parties!! We have shutes and ladders, weebles, scooters, and deluxe wooden scrabble games now!! Hurry book a party and get these great toys for free and have a $250 party and get the deluxe scrabble for $30 wahoo!! We also have a back to school sale!! See the new flyer call me for more information!!! We are having our great convention in New Orleans next year and we are building houses wahooo!!!! We have a great mission!! 203-672-0681 Call now to book your party for fall is filling fast!!
fshngqueen@aol.com

Michele Marchetti
Therapeutic Recreational Specialist and Group Manager for Discovery Toys!!
http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Alzheimer's and recreation and fun for families!!

Here is some general info on Alzheimer's and a couple of things that work well with them are music and art therapy. Another thing is familar things. Patients that I have dealt with that have alzheimers often will not follow direct commands. If you tell them to sit up and eat or walk, etc. they will just look at you with a blank stare, they might smile or just do nothing. Like they just don't understand. But if you get them up on their feet and kinda get them moving, then they would walk or if you handed them a toothbrush and toothpaste they would know to brush their teeth...things they know from the past often they just do naturally. This is of course not always the case in advanced patients. Each patient is of course different. They can become easily agitated and they may believe things that are not true...if you disagree with them then they can become agitated. Often they have difficulty expressing themselves, language can be repetitive and they often get stuck on the same phrase and say it over and over. So with all that...some things you might suggest are some of our musical cds that have common things...like head, shoulders, knees and toes or any with things that would be familiar to most. I would not suggest games that are difficult to learn as the patient would be hard to teach a new skill unless they were just a mild case. Things like easy puzzles..Opposite pairs. Or giant pegboard might be good. Toddler talk...since they will recognize the phone and its sounds and know what it is. Color, Craft and Carry might be good for the art therapy. Music makes my day DVD. They might like the Rainfall Rattle. Place and trace...easy puzzle and could use for artwork if they were a mild case. Sounds like Fun CD could be calming music. Playful patterns if a mild case might work. Starting Write or I Can Write. Possibly ABSeas.. fishing common activity and for mild case might enjoy playing the game. Sensory balls like tangiball and roll-a rama. Hammer Away might be another common activity since it involves hammering. Castlemarbleworks ...not so much the building part, but dropping the balls down some might enjoy. Hope this helps. These are just suggestions. Like I said each patient is different, so talk about the things common to Alzheimers and let the therapist or the director make the choices. If I were to bring some things to show...some of these might be good. I am a recreational specialist in nuirsing homes call me for more information!!



Alzheimer's and Your Loved One
Symptoms
Alzheimer's disease is the most common form of dementia. It's a progressive disease that gets worse with time. Alzheimer's does not affect each person the same way. But, there are some symptoms that usually happen as the disease progresses. Here is a list of some of the symptoms:



Alzheimer's progresses in stages over 8 to 10 years, on average, after diagnosis

Mild Alzheimer's disease
People with mild Alzheimer's disease may:

Have memory loss
Have trouble naming common items
Ask or say the same thing over and over
Get lost easily
Lose interest in things they once liked to do
Lose things more often than normal
Have personality changes
Moderate Alzheimer's disease
People with moderate Alzheimer's disease may:

Have poor memory of recent events
Have trouble with tasks such as washing dishes or setting the table
Have a hard time dressing for the weather or occasion
Forget to shave or shower
Argue more often
Believe things are real when they are not
Wander, often at night
Be worried or depressed
Need close supervision
Severe Alzheimer's disease
People with severe Alzheimer's disease may:

Have problems with eating
Have problems with speech or not speak at all
Not recognize you or other family members
Not be able to control bowels or urine
Have problems with walking


Enjoying Time With Your Loved One
While caring for your loved one may take a lot of time, you should still try to find time just for sharing life's simple moments. Finding things you and your loved one can do together can be hard. But it's worth it. Like you, people with Alzheimer's disease may enjoy doing activities that interest them.

Plus, events and activities may help your loved one enjoy life each day.

When you look for things to do, don't forget that Alzheimer's makes it hard to focus or learn new skills. Some people with Alzheimer's like to spend time on things that they enjoyed in the past. With your help, your loved one may still enjoy a hobby or pastime that was once a favorite. When you can, try to build on current skills. This may work better than trying to teach new skills.

Enjoying time together
Here are some things you and your loved one may enjoy:

Looking at photos
Talking about family history
Making a scrapbook
Playing simple games
Working puzzles
Listening to music together
It may also help to add light exercise to your loved one's day. Be sure to ask the doctor first. It may help your loved one sleep better, and it might be helpful to your mood.

No matter what you choose, try to:

Break each task into small steps
Give praise each step of the way
Watch for signs that your loved one is tired, so you can take a break
Make time to enjoy simple moments together at the same time each day

Tips I have found:

THE SECRET POWER OF ART
People who can no longer use words can express their deepest feelings, through the symbolic language of art.

Discover the groundbreaking book about art therapy for Alzheimer's disease:

When Words Have Lost Their Meaning:
Alzheimer's Patients Communicate through Art
After many years' experience as an art therapist to Alzheimer's patients, Ruth Abraham now offers an encouraging guide to communicating despite dementia.

Are you a psychologist, occupational therapist, healthcare or social worker, friend or family to an Alzheimer's sufferer? Find out how to engage with and celebrate each person's individuality and humanness for far longer than previously thought.

Art therapy draws on the rich resources of a lifetime — the temperament, emotions, experiences, and memories that make up one's internal world — that are still present for many years of the disease and provide material for profound communion.

Unfortunately, medical science has not yet provided any effective long-term treatment for Alzheimer's disease. In the absence of a much-hoped-for miracle drug, it is our responsibility to find ways to enhance the lives of those stricken with the illness. Current major therapeutic approaches consist of practical and emotional support and of strategies that help strengthen remaining capacities. Art therapy, a relatively new resource, sets out to do exactly these things, offering an additional means to bolster the humanity of the Alzheimer's patient. Art therapy proves to be a powerful medium because it bypasses the dominant verbal aspects of brain function. The work is based on the assumption that in spite of deterioration and advancing limitations, the dementia patient is nevertheless a person with an interior subjective world. The afflicted person, overwhelmed by an inability to articulate, can give voice to this inner world through the use of art materials. In providing that person with the symbolic language of art, an alternative channel for communication is opened. This is a vital gift when words have lost their meaning. ~~~quoted from the book When Words have Lost their Meaning by Ruth Abraham.


Music is a form of sensory stimulation, which provokes responses due to the familiarity, predictability, and feelings of security associated with it.

Participants without a music background can benefit from music therapy.

Music therapy provides opportunities for:

Memory recall which contributes to reminiscence and satisfaction with life

Positive changes in mood and emotional states

Sense of control over life through successful experiences

Awareness of self and environment which accompanies increased attention to music

Anxiety and stress reduction for older adult and caregiver

Nonpharmacological management of pain and discomfort

Stimulation which provokes interest even when no other approach is effective

Structure which promotes rhythmic and continuous movement or vocal fluency as an adjunct to physical rehabilitation

Emotional intimacy when spouses and families share creative music experiences

Social interaction with caregivers and families

Is There Research To Support Music Therapy For Persons with Alzheimer's Disease?

Through peer-reviewed journals inside the profession such as the Journal of Music Therapy, Music Therapy, and Music Therapy Perspectives, and extensive articles in journals outside the profession, AMTA has promoted much research exploring the benefits of music therapy for persons with Alzheimer's Disease.

Research Highlights

Music therapy reduces depression among older adults.

Music experiences can be structured to enhance social/emotional skills, to assist in recall and language skills and to decrease problem behaviors.

Music tasks can be used to assess cognitive ability in people with Alzheimer's Disease.

Music is effective in decreasing the frequency of agitated and aggressive behaviors for individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias.

Individuals in the late stages of dementia respond to and interact with music.
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Rocket Start!

Rocket Start your business!

When you join my team, I will help you get your Discovery Toys business off and running! Your initial investment of $99 will get you the toys, catalogs and materials you'll need to get your business started (over $300 value)! You can get started with just a $25 deposit!

In the first 3 months of your business, Discovery Toys helps you rocket start your business by giving incentives for selling and recruiting. You'll earn coupons to get FREE TOYS from Discovery Toys based on your sales! You can even earn your start-up kit back for free! (I earned my kit back in the first month of my business by just doing a few parties!)

Discovery Toys continues to provide incentives like free Convention Registration (a $199 value) and a trip to Disneyland for 4 days/3 nights for two! What are you waiting for!?!? Call me TODAY to start your business!
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681

Join the Amazing Team Jamoke' !!!

Join the Amazing Team Jamoke' (where the child plays)!

Have you ever thought about starting a fun, flexible, home-based business that lets you play for a living? If you have, then Discovery Toys is for you!

I am looking for people all over the country to join my team!

It only takes a $25 deposit to get started!

CALL ME to get more information or to JOIN MY TEAM! I will help you get your business off the ground and support you all the way! My number is 203-672-0681!
Michele Marchetti, your Discovery Toys Independent Group Manager.
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Autism Article

TEN THINGS EVERY CHILD WITH AUTISM
WISHES YOU KNEW
by Ellen Notbohm

Some days it seems the only predictable thing about it is the unpredictability. The only consistent attribute – the inconsistency. There is little argument on any level but that autism is baffling, even to those who spend their lives around it. The child who lives with autism may look “normal” but his behavior can be perplexing and downright difficult.

Autism was once thought an “incurable” disorder, but that notion is crumbling in the face knowledge and understanding that is increasing even as you read this. Every day, individuals with autism are showing us that they can overcome, compensate for and otherwise manage many of autism’s most challenging characteristics. Equipping those around our children with simple understanding of autism’s most basic elements has a tremendous impact on their ability to journey towards productive, independent adulthood.

Autism is an extremely complex disorder but for purposes of this one article, we can distill its myriad characteristics into four fundamental areas: sensory processing challenges, speech/language delays and impairments, the elusive social interaction skills and whole child/self-esteem issues. And though these four elements may be common to many children, keep front-of-mind the fact that autism is a spectrum disorder: no two (or ten or twenty) children with autism will be completely alike. Every child will be at a different point on the spectrum. And, just as importantly – every parent, teacher and caregiver will be at a different point on the spectrum. Child or adult, each will have a unique set of needs.

Here are ten things every child with autism wishes you knew:

1. I am first and foremost a child. I have autism. I am not primarily “autistic.” My autism is only one aspect of my total character. It does not define me as a person. Are you a person with thoughts, feelings and many talents, or are you just fat (overweight), myopic (wear glasses) or klutzy (uncoordinated, not good at sports)? Those may be things that I see first when I meet you, but they are not necessarily what you are all about.

As an adult, you have some control over how you define yourself. If you want to single out a single characteristic, you can make that known. As a child, I am still unfolding. Neither you nor I yet know what I may be capable of. Defining me by one characteristic runs the danger of setting up an expectation that may be too low. And if I get a sense that you don’t think I “can do it,” my natural response will be: Why try?

2. My sensory perceptions are disordered. Sensory integration may be the most difficult aspect of autism to understand, but it is arguably the most critical. It his means that the ordinary sights, sounds, smells, tastes and touches of everyday that you may not even notice can be downright painful for me. The very environment in which I have to live often seems hostile. I may appear withdrawn or belligerent to you but I am really just trying to defend myself. Here is why a “simple” trip to the grocery store may be hell for me:

My hearing may be hyper-acute. Dozens of people are talking at once. The loudspeaker booms today’s special. Musak whines from the sound system. Cash registers beep and cough, a coffee grinder is chugging. The meat cutter screeches, babies wail, carts creak, the fluorescent lighting hums. My brain can’t filter all the input and I’m in overload!

My sense of smell may be highly sensitive. The fish at the meat counter isn’t quite fresh, the guy standing next to us hasn’t showered today, the deli is handing out sausage samples, the baby in line ahead of us has a poopy diaper, they’re mopping up pickles on aisle 3 with ammonia….I can’t sort it all out. I am dangerously nauseated.

Because I am visually oriented (see more on this below), this may be my first sense to become overstimulated. The fluorescent light is not only too bright, it buzzes and hums. The room seems to pulsate and it hurts my eyes. The pulsating light bounces off everything and distorts what I am seeing – the space seems to be constantly changing. There’s glare from windows, too many items for me to be able to focus (I may compensate with "tunnel vision"), moving fans on the ceiling, so many bodies in constant motion. All this affects my vestibular and proprioceptive senses, and now I can’t even tell where my body is in space.

3. Please remember to distinguish between won’t (I choose not to) and can’t (I am not able to). Receptive and expressive language and vocabulary can be major challenges for me. It isn’t that I don’t listen to instructions. It’s that I can’t understand you. When you call to me from across the room, this is what I hear: “*&^%$#@, Billy. #$%^*&^%$&*………” Instead, come speak directly to me in plain words: “Please put your book in your desk, Billy. It’s time to go to lunch.” This tells me what you want me to do and what is going to happen next. Now it is much easier for me to comply.

4. I am a concrete thinker. This means I interpret language very literally. It’s very confusing for me when you say, “Hold your horses, cowboy!” when what you really mean is “Please stop running.” Don’t tell me something is a “piece of cake” when there is no dessert in sight and what you really mean is “this will be easy for you to do.” When you say “It’s pouring cats and dogs,” I see pets coming out of a pitcher. Please just tell me “It’s raining very hard.”

Idioms, puns, nuances, double entendres, inference, metaphors, allusions and sarcasm are lost on me.

5. Please be patient with my limited vocabulary. It’s hard for me to tell you what I need when I don’t know the words to describe my feelings. I may be hungry, frustrated, frightened or confused but right now those words are beyond my ability to express. Be alert for body language, withdrawal, agitation or other signs that something is wrong.

Or, there’s a flip side to this: I may sound like a “little professor” or movie star, rattling off words or whole scripts well beyond my developmental age. These are messages I have memorized from the world around me to compensate for my language deficits because I know I am expected to respond when spoken to. They may come from books, TV, the speech of other people. It is called “echolalia.” I don’t necessarily understand the context or the terminology I’m using. I just know that it gets me off the hook for coming up with a reply.

6. Because language is so difficult for me, I am very visually oriented. Please show me how to do something rather than just telling me. And please be prepared to show me many times. Lots of consistent repetition helps me learn.

A visual schedule is extremely helpful as I move through my day. Like your day-timer, it relieves me of the stress of having to remember what comes next, makes for smooth transition between activities, helps me manage my time and meet your expectations. Here’s a great website for learning more about visual schedules: www.cesa7.k12.wi.us/sped/autism/structure/str11.htm.

I won’t lose the need for a visual schedule as I get older, but my “level of representation” may change. Before I can read, I need a visual schedule with photographs or simple drawings. As I get older, a combination of words and pictures may work, and later still, just words.

7. Please focus and build on what I can do rather than what I can’t do. Like any other human, I can’t learn in an environment where I’m constantly made to feel that I’m not good enough and that I need “fixing.” Trying anything new when I am almost sure to be met with criticism, however “constructive,” becomes something to be avoided. Look for my strengths and you will find them. There is more than one “right” way to do most things.

8. Please help me with social interactions. It may look like I don’t want to play with the other kids on the playground, but sometimes it’s just that I simply do not know how to start a conversation or enter a play situation. If you can encourage other children to invite me to join them at kickball or shooting baskets, it may be that I’m delighted to be included.

I do best in structured play activities that have a clear beginning and end. I don’t know how to “read” facial expressions, body language or the emotions of others, so I appreciate ongoing coaching in proper social responses. For example, if I laugh when Emily falls off the slide, it’s not that I think it’s funny. It’s that I don’t know the proper response. Teach me to say “Are you OK?”

9. Try to identify what triggers my meltdowns. Meltdowns, blow-ups, tantrums or whatever you want to call them are even more horrid for me than they are for you. They occur because one or more of my senses has gone into overload. If you can figure out why my meltdowns occur, they can be prevented. Keep a log noting times, settings, people, activities. A pattern may emerge.

Try to remember that all behavior is a form of communication. It tells you, when my words cannot, how I perceive something that is happening in my environment.

Parents, keep in mind as well: persistent behavior may have an underlying medical cause. Food allergies and sensitivities, sleep disorders and gastrointestinal problems can all have profound effects on behavior.

10. If you are a family member, please love me unconditionally. Banish thoughts like, “If he would just……” and “Why can’t she…..” You did not fulfill every last expectation your parents had for you and you wouldn’t like being constantly reminded of it. I did not choose to have autism. But remember that it is happening to me, not you. Without your support, my chances of successful, self-reliant adulthood are slim. With your support and guidance, the possibilities are broader than you might think. I promise you – I am worth it.

And finally, three words: Patience. Patience. Patience. Work to view my autism as a different ability rather than a disability. Look past what you may see as limitations and see the gifts autism has given me. It may be true that I’m not good at eye contact or conversation, but have you noticed that I don’t lie, cheat at games, tattle on my classmates or pass judgment on other people? Also true that I probably won’t be the next Michael Jordan. But with my attention to fine detail and capacity for extraordinary focus, I might be the next Einstein. Or Mozart. Or Van Gogh.

They had autism too.

The answer to Alzheimer’s, the enigma of extraterrestrial life -- what future achievements from today’s children with autism, children like me, lie ahead?

All that I might become won’t happen without you as my foundation. Think through some of those societal ‘rules’ and if they don’t make sense for me, let them go. Be my advocate, be my friend, and we’ll see just how far I can go.

(c) 2005 Ellen Notbohm
Ellen Notbohm is author of Ten Things Every Child with Autism Wishes You
Knew and Ten Things Your Student with Autism Wishes You Knew, both ForeWord
Book of the Year Honorable Mention finalists and iParenting Media Award
recipients. She is also co-author of the award-winning 1001 Great Ideas for
Teaching and Raising Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, a columnist
for Autism Asperger's Digest and Children's Voice, and a contributor to
numerous publications and websites around the world. To contact Ellen or
explore her work, please visit www.ellennotbohm.com .

Autism Tools

Discovery Toys offers several tools to help families affected by autism:

~ A special Parent Support Pack for families of children with autism that you can share with others and build a business if you choose.

~ A hostess program tailored to offer you the chance to earn FREE and half-price products for your own child or the organization of your choice.

~ A product line sorted by key skill areas to make choosing the right toys easy and learning fun.









About Autism

According to the Princeton Child Development Institute, “Autism is a severe developmental disability that is usually noted within the first three years of life. It occurs in 1 of 166 births, exists in every ethnic group and every part of the world, and is much more common in boys than girls. Before treatment, youngsters with autism exhibit very uneven patterns of development. Often, speech is absent or very delayed and children do not relate to objects, events, or other people in expected ways, nor do they respond to touch, taste, sight, or sound in the same manner as their typical peers. Many children exhibit extremely dysfunctional responses, including stereotypic movements, tantrums, and self-injury.

Because the etiology of autism is not clearly understood, prevention is not possible. But a significant body of evidence shows that applied behavior analysis technology can make a world of difference for people with autism, especially when treatment begins early.”


Together we can raise hope and deliver a rich, educational experience to children with autism. To learn more about the Discovery Toys Autism Support Project and products, contact your Discovery Toys Independent Group Manager
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681
fshngqueen@aol.com
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Autism

Autism Support

Autism Support Project

Discovery Toys has sensational products that encourage multiple levels of learning for all children. For children with autism, the diversity and breadth of learning opportunities that our products offer provide you with great value and fabulous results.

Discovery Toys joined with the Princeton Child Development Institute (PCDI) in working to raise hope and skill levels for children with autism through a comprehensive development support program. This program helps parents of children with autism understand the most commonly shared learning difficulties and select appropriate products and activities to support tailored development programs. Knowing a child’s skill level and how Discovery Toys can bridge the divide to the next step provides concrete learning support parents can rely upon. Wrap It! & Give A Gift to Autism

All Discovery Toys' customers will now have the opportunity to help by purchasing a dual set of Discovery Toys gift wrap, called “It’s a Wrap! Special Moments Wrap.”

For every set of gift wrap sold, Discovery Toys will donate 50 cents to Autism Speaks.

www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
203-672-0681

2-4-6 Reading Program

2-4-6 is a fun and easy reading program designed to encourage parents, teachers and children to work together through reading.



How will schools benefit?


* Each classroom receives 100% of all funds raised to purchase educational materials from Discovery Toys.


* Your students receive the benefits of reading (or being read to) plus the advantage of using Discovery Toys' educational materials in the classroom.




* Every child having 6 sponsors and/or $24.00 in pledges will receive a certificate of achievement for participating in the program.

I will also donate 10% of the total raised to the school to purchase more Discovery Toys materials for the classrooms or 5% that can be used for pizza/popsicle parties for the children who participate.



Here's how it works...



2 WEEKS of reading teamwork.

Parents, teachers and children read together just 24 minutes a day

* (12 at home & 12 at school) for a 2 week period.


4 HOURS of total reading time.

At the end of the 2 weeks, each parent, teacher, child team will have read 4 hours together.


6 SPONSORS pledge their support.

Each parent and child team finds 6 sponsors to support their program.

By pledging just $1.00/hr. each sponsor contributes just $4.00 per child.





As a former elementary education teacher, I believe that reading opens the door to new worlds of fun and inspiration for our children. Reading books together is one of the ways children and adults can share quality time.

If you have any questions, or would like to talk with me about the 2-4-6 Reading Program, please don't hesitate to call me, your Discovery Toys Independent Group Manager Michele Marchetti 203-672-0681 fshngqueen@aol.com or www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti.

Try A Toy Party!

Try out a toy party!

Toy Party ~ One of the best ways to experience Discovery Toys products is through an at-home party. Not only do you get the opportunity to preview many of the products Discovery Toys offers, as a hostess, you also get to earn FREE TOYS!!

For example, when your party sales reach $300, you earn $50 in FREE TOYS that YOU get to choose! Your freebies start with party sales of only $100 and continue to go up as your party sales skyrocket. The sky is the limit!

All you have to do is contact me if you live in the MASS,NJ,CT,NY,and RI area, set a date and invite everyone you know! I do the REST! I'll give you ideas for getting people to your parties, will help contact your guests and we'll work together for a great party!

Catalog Party ~ If you live out of the Tampa Bay area and would still like a chance to earn FREE TOYS, you can always do a catalog party. I'll send you the catalogs with a letter explaining the catalog party for your friends. Hand out the catalogs to everyone you know, collect the orders by a specific date and contact me with the orders. Just like a regular party, you get FREE TOYS!

If either of these party ideas sound good to you, contact me, your Discovery Toys
Group Manager
Michele Marchetti
203-672-0681
www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Remember MAD LIBS, when you were a kid?

If you do, then you will LOVE Loony Libs! Creating ridiculous bellylaughs is the best way to learn your nouns, verbs, adjectives, and pronouns. Discovery Toys is NOT just for babies! Loony Libs is for ages 7 years and up. It includes a CD, dry-erase laminated book and 2 dry-erase markers. The dry-erase page allows children to do it again and again. The CD brings grammar and music together in a fun and funny way. To see our full line of books, music and DVDs, including the new line created by Kindermusik click here: https://www.discoverytoyslink.com/ecommerce/control/category?PURCHASE_STATE=STANDARD&category_id=S_MUSIC&pcategory=NEW

Discovery Toys Support Grandparents July 15- August 14

Join Discovery Toys and start sharing Educational Toys, Books, Games, and Music with your own grandchildren, friends and family for just $49!!Click here to see the full-color flier.This is a $260 value which includes catalogs, business tools and 3 month FREE web site plus 11 of our top-selling products.
call Michele at 203-910-4686 for more information and to order this Best Buy Bundle

You can help people by being my Discovery toys Customer....

I have recently partnered with 3 organizations to help raise money for their causes and needs. Please take a look at the following websites and find out how you can help them by being a Discovery Toys customer: www.CTautismsociety.org, www.toysfortots.org, www.ronalmcdonaldhouse-ct.org, or eamil me at fshngqueen@aol.com or www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti or call 203-672-0681

Here is more information about the Crystal Salt Ionizer
Ionizer Q&As

The Discovery toys SKY Jewel Kite is a breeze to fly!!!

If you like to fly kites, you should try the beautiful Sky Jewel kite from Discovery Toys. We took it to the beach and literally did not have to take one step to get in into the air. We gave one to each of the families there with us and they are reporting the same thing. If you want to fly a kite but don't enjoy running half a mile to get it going, call me today to place your order! I'm putting them on sale today through August 5th for 10% off the regular price of $24.99 (plus shipping and tax)! Order 3 or more and receive a 15% discount. And don't forget to add a bottle or 2 of our all-natural DEET-Free insect repellent. It's safe for all ages! Http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti

Can't get to the Beach? try a discovery toys cyrstal salt Ionizer to help you RE-Charge

Below is an article about negative ions. The Discovery Toys Crystal Salt Ionizer, sculpted from Himalayan rock salt, leaves the air in any room clean and fresh. With heat from an internal light bulb, moisture reacts with the rock salt and releases helpful ions into the air. It is perfect for both the home and office, and as a night lamp for your child's room.Re-Charge at the BeachYou just can’t explain that feeling you get at the beach. Maybe it’s the sound of the waves or the feeling of the sand on your toes or the warm sun replenishing your vitamin D levels. Whatever “it” is, you just feel good. Something must be in the air.According to mounting research, there really may be something in the air at the beach. Because of the constant crashing and movement of the waves, the beach contains high levels of negative ions, which is a good thing. High concentrations of negatively charged ions have long been thought to affect the way you feel, and there’s now supporting evidence they can boost mood, ease depression and even improve physical health. Negative ions can also be found in high concentrations at waterfalls and after a summer rain storm.These special air particles are actually biologically active when they enter the body, yet how they work is still unknown. Animal studies have found that living in an area free of negative ions can actually shorten the lifespan. Researchers at the Russian Academy of Sciences in Moscow found a negative ion-rich environment improves an animal’s ability to handle physical stresses. They also appear to help boost production of protective antioxidant enzymes in the body. Preliminary research conducted by Michael Terman, Ph.D. at Columbia University Medical Center, suggests that high density negative ion therapy may help those suffering from Seasonal Affect Disorder, a type of depression experienced in the winter. Besides their positive physiological effects, negative ions are thought to also help clean the air of odors, allergens and pollutants.Indoor environments tend to have very low levels of negative ions. Our modern lifestyle is to thank for that. Computers, electrical appliances and air conditioning all contribute to negative ion depletion. Think about how good it feels to open a window after a thunderstorm when you’ve been stuck inside all day, or when you roll your window down after the air conditioning has been on in the car. It just feels good!So make your vacation plans and head to wear the water moves! Or step outside every chance you get after a storm rolls through this summer. You’ll definitely do yourself some good. http://www.discoverytoyslink.com/michelemarchetti
References:
Center for Environmental Therapeutics
Psychiatric News
WebMDNutrition Review
ThinkQuest

Discovery Toys Brain Power Sale Runs through August 17th

This sale offers 27 super-fun, active-learning products for kids of all ages that will keep their minds warmed-up and engaged AT UP TO 60%. They will have such a blast that they won’t even notice their resting brains are squeezing in a little exercise while they play. To shop from the sales flier, click https://www.discoverytoyslink.com/ecommerce/control/category?category_id=S_BrainPowerSale&pcategory=S_SPECIALS&REFERRING_USER_ID=MAW463&REFERRING_COUNTRY_OF_BUSINESS=US&request=category

Make a donation to help Autism Research

You can help! Become one of my Discovery Toys customers and the proceeds of the sale will be donated to the Autism Society of CT. Call 203-672-0681 today to place your order. Thank you for your support!

Christmas in July?????

It's never too soon to start donating to Toys for Tots to help needy children during Christmas. I work with the Navy/Marine Corps Reserve Center to help provide our quality educational and developmental products for Toys for Tots. If you would like to make a donation, order products for Toys for Tots or sponsor a fundraiser or corporate set-up to help increase the number of Discovery Toys products the children get this year, please contact me right away. I can provide you with all the information you will need to help the children. Thank you!

Grandparents Special coming July 15th!!!

Stay tuned for more information.........