Since the human race can remember, toys have been an integral part of growing up. Not just because playing with toys is fun for girls and boys, but toys are important for a child's natural development in many different ways. Toys help to teach children co-ordination, creativity, logical reasoning and many other important things needed in a child's development. Watching your children play is one of the wonderful joys of parenthood – especially as you see your child learn, and as you see their personality come out.

Notably, toys have become more and more complex as time and technology changes. In days gone by, simple wooden toys would suffice. Not only would children get endless hours from these toys, but these toys could also be passed down from generation to generation due to their durability. Strong, tough toys are still the dream of parents, and the quest to get the best value for money is a serious factor when looking for toys.

The kind of toys also change depending on the age and gender of the child. Research has shown that at a very early age, girls and boys are very stereotypically attracted to certain kinds of toys and even colors. Infants, however, generally all have the same classic toys, and not too much has changed in the toys available for them. Rattles, stuffed animals and hanging toys are still the most popular – and these toys are still excellent for developing the child's eye focus and muscular co-ordination – as well as teaching the child that reactions and actions have effect.

When a child becomes a toddler, many more sophisticated toys are available to improve the child's logical reasoning. Toys then also become more nurturing towards the creative and imaginative side as the child reaches the kindergarten age. By this time, it may start becoming easier to see what the child enjoys and be able to purchase toys around their interests. Obviously, sporty kids will always enjoy sporty toys – but, it's good to give them variety in their toys so that they develop in other areas as well.

Because of the development of computers and TV, it can become difficult these days to get many kids enthused about being outside. But remember that computers (or TV) aren't the enemy – in fact, computers and TV can provide a heck of a lot of education and learning for your kids as well. This is why many toy line manufacturers or retail stores (like Toys-R-Us, Big W, or Factoryfast.com.au on-line) sell computer games as well as traditional toys. However, getting the kids to enjoy the Australian sunshine and outdoors is still a good idea, and for older kids, toys such as an ATV provide endless entertainment and a good excuse to get outside. Both girls and boys enjoy it, and these kinds of toys can actually provide endless hours of fun for friends and family too. ATV's are incredibly robust as well, sturdy and safe, and can even be battery powered (which means, very little maintenance if at all.) BETTINI manufactures a 5kg ATV four-wheeled bike, and is sure to get the kids away from the TV and provide fun for the entire family. The BETTINI ATV Bike is available on-line here.