A- is 3 and a half years old and fully capable of using the toilet himself. Put he prefers to do good old number 2 in the diaper. So to encourage him, I have bought him prizes. In this case, small construction toys.
I've already learned the hard way that this child doesn't care very much about items, but he loves to open a surprise, just like Ryan does, on "ryan's toy review" on youtube. So they're all wrapped and in homemade boxes made from cereal boxes and yarn.
I realize these homemade boxes are ghetto and why would I ever put them up on a blog for show? Two reasons: they're fun and creative, but I won't be upset when my toddlers play with them and tear them up. After all, they cost me zero dollars and minimal time to create. And secondly, my kids will enjoy the puzzle and practice fine motor skills trying to get the yarn on and off of those boxes.
I use to think I should make and buy only quality stuff, but the last couple years have taught me that each kid has a different opinion about whats "fun" to play with, and usually the "trash" is their favorites. As I've been trying to create more "space" and eliminate "stuff", I've come to appreciate "disposable toys and entertainment" aka toilet paper rolls, boxes, dollar store puzzles, empty peanut better jars, etc. At toddler age, everything new is interesting.
