The following appeared on the mySimon Toys and Collectibles pages in 2000. First, I had to convince parents that a toy would be perfect for their child, and then I would spotlight products that fit within certain price ranges. The writing had to be clever and vivid, but brief.

Looking for a Child's Keyboard?

Kids are specialists at making noise. Whether it is banging pots and pans, singing along with Barney or mastering the chords on a first guitar, most kids love to make themselves heard. One of the most popular ways to harness that energy at an early age is with a toy keyboard. If the mere thought of it makes you nervous, think again: Several studies have shown that exposure to music improves a young child's reasoning skills and has an impact on later academic performance.

Covering a range of learning experiences, the following list includes keyboards that are just for fun and others that will help teach a child how to play. Now go buy a set of earplugs.

Under $25

Sparkling Symphony Musical Piano

Instead of ebony and ivory, this piano has sparkle and rainbow. By either rocking or touching the keys, the littlest musician will hear both children's songs and classics, including Mozart and Beethoven. For ages 6 months to 3 years.

Lights and Sound Festival Orchestra

How many different ways can a dog bark? Find out with this colorful zoo orchestra that plays animal sounds at the touch of a key. Switch the settings, and each of the nine animals plays different musical instruments. For ages 18 months to 4 years.

Barney Song Magic Keyboard.

Even if the famous purple dinosaur drives you crazy, you'll have to admit that this keyboard is a fun way to introduce kids to music. The board delivers multiple songs and instruments, and a disc lets future mixers lay sound effects over the tunes. For ages 2 to 5 .

Crayola Electronic Keyboard

Any young artist would be thrilled to have a keyboard with keys shaped like crayons. This toy also includes a swing-out drawer so real Crayolas can be kept close at hand. For ages 5 to 9 .

$25 to $50

Electronic Sing-a-Long Keyboard with Bench

Do you have any future performers at home? This keyboard has a bench and a detachable microphone, plus multiple drum and instrument sounds, so your child will be ready to audition for Star Search in no time. For ages 3 to 6 .

Orchestral Piano

With this piano, a child can become the leader of an animal band. Press one of the ducks, and your budding maestro will hear a new instrument. Press the bear, and he or she will hear one of six prerecorded songs. The color-coded keys and songbook help kids play along. For ages 3 to 6 .

Barbie Music Center Keyboard

Did you know that Barbie is also a serious musician? With several preset drum rhythms and a two-octave range, this stylish keyboard (with volume control) gives Barbie girls the chance to learn songs like " London Bridge " or create their own masterpieces. For ages 6 to 9 .

$50 and More

Extra Big Piano Dance Mat

Remember when Tom Hanks danced on piano keys in the movie Big? Children can do the same at home. Measuring 30 by 70 inches and featuring recording and playback functions, this toy combines music education with a little exercise. For ages 3 and up.

Baby Grand Piano in White

This handcrafted, miniature baby grand is made by one of the oldest toy piano manufacturers. The piano includes a color-coded learning system, and its durable wood design ensures that it can hold up to kids captured by the spirit of Beethoven. For ages 3 to 6 .

MIDI Stereo Keyboard

With its own built-in music tutor, this keyboard is like having a 24-hour-a-day piano teacher. But the drum pads, dance DJ button and MIDI interface make sure that this instructor is fun to be around. And for parents, there is a headphone jack to keep thins quiet. For ages 9 and up.

The following appeared on mySimon.com's Holiday Gift Guide in the winter of 2000. The purpose was to find a list of gifts that would appeal to a certain personality-in this case, a child with a passion for sports.

"The Athlete"

Whether your favorite young sports enthusiast dreams of winning a gold medal or simply enjoys a good game of pick-up basketball, the toy universe is filled with gift possibilities. Both players and fans have plenty of options for learning new games, improving existing skills, or celebrating famous sports stars. The gifts we've selected could fuel the passion of the young athlete for many years to come.

Grow to Pro Basketball

The name says it all: This freestanding basketball hoop grows with any future NBA or WNBA all-star. Perfect for the dedicated shooter, the Grow to Pro Basketball can become an instant playground, complete with an adjustable stand, large backboard, and two sizes of inflatable balls.

Youth 10-Inch Prospect Series Baseball Glove

Searching for a glove that isn't too tough or unwieldy for the littlest player? This one is well-suited to any child just beginning to play baseball, T-ball, or softball because its pigskin leather shell and special design protects young hands and helps kids get a better grip on the ball.

NFL Board Books: Big & Small

Have you noticed a gleam in your toddler's eye whenever you watch Monday Night Football? This board book provides parents with a fun way to teach young kids about both football and the meaning of opposites. If you are a die-hard NFL fan, you might have trouble putting the book down yourself!

Rollerblade BX In-line Skates

Young athletes like to move-quickly-and these in-line skates keep kids going for a long time. Reliable and durable, their best asset is the ability to expand up to four full shoe sizes. In other words, this is one gift that won't be outgrown before spring arrives.

Venus and Serena Williams Dolls

Kids who know and love the superstar Williams sisters should get ready to play. Complete with tennis racquets, balls, and sports bags, these dolls allow children to perfect the sisters' game off-court. Hair beads are not included.

The Official NBA Basketball Encyclopedia

Think: Who led the NBA in assists during the 2000 playoffs? The 1990 playoffs? This brand-new encyclopedia puts the answers at a fan's fingertips. It even features the most current statistics on every player who has ever been in the NBA. What more could a hoops lover ask for?

Head Agassi 25 Junior Tennis Racquet

As more kids head to the court to try out their serves, they need a tennis racquet that can accommodate any grip and skill level. Light but sturdy, this model is specifically made to withstand even the most rigorous practice.

Harvard Tournament Soccer Table

Don't be confused by the name: This is an affordable version of the popular arcade and bar game known as foosball, and it will please any age. Better yet, you don't need quarters to play.

Triax Junior Watch

For kids who are serious about training for the track team, this Nike watch has it all-a chronograph that displays lap times, an S-shaped strap that is comfortable to wear, and water and scratch resistance. Oh, and it also tells time.

NHL 2001

Hit the ice from the comfort of the warm indoors. This all-ages hockey game lets kids play with all the NHL teams, along with multiple international teams. Praised for its excellent graphics and customization features, this Playstation game puts youngsters on the ice without anyone losing a tooth. Also available on CD-ROM.