One of the learnings in the book, that is not pointed out, is found on page 9. In the illustration you will see Belle talking with her Father. In his hands is a wooden spoon. One of the things the girls would do is use their Mother’s wooden spoon with a tea towel wrapped around it for a doll. The rounded part of the spoon would be the face of the doll. This creative way of using a wooden spoon as a doll solved the need for wanting a doll and developed imagination.

These types of situations that were created out of necessity. Toys were often difficult to buy because of availability but also because of cost.

Application: What toys does your child(ren) have. Discuss options that they have with possibly giving some toys away to children needing toys. Look at the agencies, hospitals, clubs, safe homes, etc. that have contact with children and that accept toys. Allow your children to feel they are part of the process and give their toys to others.