And because most of us are glued to our computer screens, children are more likely to respond to educational toys that are electronic because it gives them a sense of adulthood - that they just like mommy and daddy, typing something into a keyboard or studying a computer monitor. The first toy manufacturing company that introduced electronic educational toys is LeapFrog. Formal learning constitutes enrolling in school or entry to any similar educational institutions. Informal education on the other hand takes place outside schools and is mediated by resources and people outside the classroom. But actually, differences between the two are not that wide. For instance, activities in informal education are eventually used to strengthen formal education. With the growing demand for educational toys nowadays, it won't be surprise when parents and children will be preferring these products more and more. Children's educational toys are, right now, a little expensive. But parents who have purchased one for their kids will tell you that it is worth every cent. Well, if you have, then I'm sure that these five tips will be a big help to you in choosing the best toy to give -- toys that are fun but still educational. Tip number one is to be sure that you are buying a toy that really is for a toddler. Sometimes we may over-estimate them and treat them like bigger children. With the birth of educational toys, learning has transformed into an activity that is fun, and not just confined to the four corners of a classroom. Schools have started to incorporate educational toys to their teaching methods, especially to preschoolers, because of this. With educational toys, not only children, but also parents, are changing their minds about the importance of toys as educational tools. Educational toys that can strengthen kids' learning during this creative plays include all types of dolls, costumes for their dressing-up games, and even assortment of materials that can be used for their games. Kids up to five years of age however, can benefit from educational toys that need construction and designing.