My sister sent me a link [via springwise.com] about a new service, Babywise, a Texas start-up that allows you to rent 4 to 6 toys a month. Hold on to them as long as you wish, then turn them in for a fresh batch. (And yes, they claim that all toys are tested for lead and meet other safety standards.) This system of sharing helps to manage clutter and makes it easier to keep toys that are developmentally appropriate on hand. Of course, keep in mind that children don’t NEED a lot. A healthy, loving relationship with caregivers is the most important thing for optimal development. I do acknowledge, however, as a new(ish) parent myself, that it is nice to have different toys and activities for the many minutes of the day with little ones who can change activities from minute to minute. Might this be a good solution?