This almost insatiable hunger for learning in children, expressed in their natural propensity to play, should not be wasted on toyd without much relevance to their educational development. While it is true, as some child experts would assert, that any play will serve its purpose in developing the child's brain and total development, it is equally unassailable that maximizing this natural learning process, is not a bad idea. In fact, in 2000 alone, during the rise of the demand for children's educational toys, LeapFrog's sales soared by a whopping 120%. Imagine how many products it is selling now! The increase in demand for educational toys, LeapFrog products, in particular, came after parents started to appreciate and realize the value of play brings to their kids' physical and psychological growth. Sales of children's educational toys have risen continuously over the past years because more and more people are starting to see their value, especially as gifts, as opposed to simply giving a stuffed toy or a doll. Children will be able to appreciate a toy more if they are able to interact with it more actively. As parents and adults who choose these toys, however, we must realize that educational toys are made according to a child's age and learning pace. Thus, we must only purchase and gift toys that are appropriate for the kid we are giving it to, otherwise, our purpose of teaching and instilling knowledge will be defeated. Get something that they can appreciate here and now so you won't be wasting any money. Second, when in doubt, ask. Most toy stores have little information kiosks where the educational toys being sold are made accessible to the public for testing and trials. These kiosks also almost always have a representative from the toy store who will gladly explain and demonstrate what each toy can do and for what ages they are best suited. Remember that giving the biggest and best gift isn't the most important part of a present. Choose something that won't empty your pockets but will still fill the happiness of the child. Give a gift that will help them in learning at the same time be enjoyable. The last tip is to always be creative. When you shop for the toy, think of something original yet not too weird.