GCM Talks Parenting and More with Actress & ROMP Owner
Kellie Martin
GCM: How important is sustainabil-
ity when you choose toys? Is there
anything surprising or shocking you
learned while researching toys?
also love a new product called castle blocks
and finally, these sweet pups. All of these
items are made in the USA by small independent artisans. Love it!
Kellie: I’m shocked by the amount of high-
GCM: Our readers love inspiring
tech gear mainstream toymakers try to sell
to kids. Children’s development is the same
as it’s always been--their brains have not
changed even though computers have become a big part of our world. Wait as long
as possible before introducing computer
games and high-tech toys to your child, because there’s no going back!
Long before I took over, ROMP had been
a great place to find unique toys made by
small companies in the USA and Europe. I
think it is essential to teach your children
to take care of their things and care of the
earth. It’s better to have fewer but better
toys--toys that they will pass on to their
children. This will sound strange, but I
know a toy is safe/well-made by the way it
smells. I love getting a box of wooden toys
and opening it up in the office. These toys
smell wholesome, clean, and fresh.
words or lessons from moms. Care to
share a gem with us?
Kellie: I find kids inspiring. I love their
innate curiosity and love of life. If you let
them guide you, you are in for some pretty
awesome adventures. My daughter (my
little guru) inspired me to make our lives
simpler and richer. Organic foods, eating
together as a family, tending a garden, not
over-committing to too many activities,
watching a spider build a web. Having a
child made me slow down and pare-down.
That’s really good for the soul.
GCM: How will your family enjoy the
holidays this year?
Kellie: We usually keep the holidays
very mellow because ROMP is hopping
at the holidays. We stick close to home,
and I do a ton of cooking and baking!
GCM: What are your top holiday
gifts this year?
Kellie: My favorite toy of all time
48
is the wood camera, so that is my
top gift for ages 1-5 years old. I
Items available at ROMPstore.com