Describe a toy you liked in your childhood - IELTS Cue Card

You should say:

• What kind of toy it is
• When you received it
• How you played it
• And how you felt about it

What kind of toy it is

The toy I loved the most in my childhood was a remote-controlled car. It was a small, red sports car made of plastic with flashing headlights and smooth rubber wheels. What made it special was its speed and the fact that I could control its movement with a handheld remote. For me, it wasn’t just a toy—it felt like having my own little vehicle that I could race anywhere.

When you received it

I received this toy on my eighth birthday. My parents surprised me with it during my birthday celebration at home. I still remember how excited I was when I opened the gift box and saw the car for the first time. It instantly became the highlight of that birthday because I had been wishing for a remote-controlled car for a long time.

How you played it

I used to play with the car almost every day. I would take it to our terrace and create small race tracks using bricks and chalk. Sometimes I even competed with my cousins, who also had similar toys. I enjoyed controlling its speed, making sharp turns, and watching it race smoothly across the ground. I also liked performing small stunts with it, like driving it over ramps or obstacles.

And how you felt about it

I felt extremely happy and attached to this toy. It gave me a sense of joy and pride because it was one of the first “advanced” toys I owned. Playing with it not only entertained me but also sparked my interest in cars and gadgets. Even today, when I think about that toy, it brings back warm childhood memories and reminds me of the simple pleasures I enjoyed growing up.

Follow Up Questions

What are the advantages and disadvantages of modern toys?

Advantages:

Modern toys are often educational and interactive. They help children develop problem-solving skills, creativity, and even basic technological understanding. Many toys also support language learning, coordination, and teamwork.

Disadvantages:

Some modern toys are expensive and overly dependent on technology. They can reduce physical activity, shorten attention spans, and create an addiction to screens. In some cases, children become less imaginative because the toy does everything for them.

What's the difference between the toys boys play with and girls play with?

Traditionally, boys tend to play with toys like cars, building blocks, and action figures, which encourage physical activity and mechanical thinking. Girls, on the other hand, often prefer dolls, kitchen sets, or craft toys that promote nurturing skills and creativity.

However, this difference is gradually reducing. Today, many parents encourage gender-neutral toys, and children are becoming more open to playing with whatever interests them rather than following stereotypes.

Do you think parents should buy more toys for their kids or spend more time with them?

In my opinion, spending time with children is far more valuable than buying more toys. Toys can entertain a child temporarily, but quality time helps build emotional bonds, communication skills, and overall development. A balanced approach is best—parents can buy useful toys, but meaningful interaction is more important for a child's growth.

What's the difference between the toys kids play now and those they played in the past?

Toys in the past were much simpler—like wooden blocks, marbles, skipping ropes, and handmade dolls. They encouraged more outdoor play and creativity because children used their imagination.

Today’s toys are more advanced and often technology-driven, such as electronic gadgets, video games, and AI-based learning systems. While modern toys are interactive and educational, they tend to reduce physical activity and outdoor play compared to older toys.

Should advertising aimed at children be prohibited?

I believe advertising aimed at children should be strictly regulated, if not completely prohibited. Children are easily influenced and may not understand the persuasive intent of advertisements. This can lead to unhealthy habits, unnecessary demands, and materialistic attitudes. Limiting such advertising protects children from exploitation and reduces pressure on parents.

How do advertisements influence children?

Advertisements strongly affect children because they attract their attention through bright colours, catchy music, and cartoon characters. As a result, kids may insist on buying products they don’t really need. This can increase consumerism and sometimes promote unhealthy choices, especially in the case of junk food ads. Additionally, frequent exposure to ads can shape their preferences and behaviour from a very young age.

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