Since 1952, the Canadian Toy Testing Council (CTTC) has been assessing toys on the basis of design, function, durability and play value, to help parents choose good toys. We do this by putting toys right into the hands of children themselves.

In our program, children test toys in their own homes for a period of six to twelve weeks. As nearly as possible, we try to duplicate the circumstances under which consumers will assess the value of a toy after it has been purchased. Our home testers treat the toys we give them as if they were their own--no special measures are taken either to encourage the children's attention, or to prevent normal wear and tear.

After the evaluation period, information is gathered from the home testing families and analyzed by the CTTC. We then arrive at a rating and an age recommendation for each toy. We also convey our findings directly to the manufacturer or distributor of the toy, in order to help companies understand the expectations of children and parents, and to encourage toy-makers to keep these expectations in mind when they design other toys.

The CTTC tests numerous toys, covering a variety of themes for a wide age range. It is our philosophy to encourage parents to select toys which will guide and enhance a child's development and ability, while providing great play value at the same time. However, the Council does not place value judgements on any toys, nor distinguishes between one gender or the other, when testing toys within our evaluation program.

Our annual TOY REPORT has been designed to help you choose toys that will meet your child's individual needs. Your toy dollars represent an investment in play satisfaction, and the TOY REPORT is designed to help you spend those dollars wisely.

Only you know your child. When choosing toys consider the child's preferences, personality and special skills, and try answering such questions as:
* What toys are already in the toy box?
* Would you like your child to continue to explore more of the same play?
* Would you like to introduce a new play interest, or simply provide a novel diversion?

In the pages of every TOY REPORT, you'll find toys for all ages, interests and occasions, as well as advice and information on toys in general.

The TOY REPORT has been divided into theme sub-chapters which include: Active Play; Arts & Crafts; Computer Software & Games; Construction Toys; Developmental Toys; Educational Toys; and Imaginative Play. Within each theme sub-chapter, you will find toys listed alphabetically.

Ratings

*** Our highest rating of Three Stars goes to toys that are distinguished by excellence in design, function, durability, and play value.

** Two Star toys have very good play value but may present minor problems related to design, function, or durability.

* A One Star rating may indicate good play value but have serious flaws in other areas of the rating criteria or, conversely, a good general assessment coupled with only limited or very narrow play value.

NR Symbol

Toys to which no stars have been assigned display major deficiencies in function, play value or durability, and are therefore not recommended.

Novelty Symbol

Our Novelty rating is assigned to toys that do not represent a form of play that is sustained, but do offer short-term or occasional enjoyment. The prices of novelty toys cover a wide range, and are not confined to dime-store levels. There is a place for novelty toys, but they must be adequately balanced by toys which are more involving and offer greater scope for sustained play value.

This symbol identifies toys under $25.00 that we feel are good birthday gifts or appropriate for party loot bags.

This symbol identifies "Toys-on-the-Go"--those best suited for travel because they are fun, compact, lightweight and self-storing.

Age range

The age range is assigned by the CTTC to help you determine the age appropriateness of a toy. In most cases we have adjusted the age range to reflect the length of play satisfaction your child should expect to receive from the toy. If a toy displays the not recommended symbol the age range will be that of the manufacturer.

The Price of the Toy

Since prices differ throughout the country, and different retail outlets often change prices because of special promotions, a price range is included only to offer you a general guideline for how much you should expect to pay for a particular product.

The Commentary

This commentary tells you principal strengths and weaknesses and presents a brief description of the toy. Please do not dismiss a toy on the basis of its rating alone; you may be able to live with certain deficiencies provided you are aware of them in advance.

An invaluable resource for all parents, grandparents, caregivers and every association working with children! The TOY REPORT also makes a great gift idea! Order the TOY REPORT for your fantastic friends and family. The Council will ship the TOY REPORTS directly to them and include your personal message in the package just in time for Christmas!

Special Offer: Back issues of the TOY REPORT are still available!

The 1999 TOY REPORT marks a new look in an edition that features evaluations on all-new toys, but you don't have to miss out on the previous years' TOY REPORTS, with information on over 1,700 toys tested!