Non-Toxic and Safe Toys

Just because toys are made for children does not mean they are safe or non-toxic. We tend to assume they would be safe and non-toxic, but not all manufacturers share our love and concern for our children. 'Junk toys' are very similar to 'junk foods' – they have instant visual appeal and promise 'goodies', but they are harmful to our bodies, our wallet, and our environment. 'Healthy toys' on the other hand are natural, non-toxic, long lasting, and good for our children – they stimulate our children's imagination, increase their knowledge and skills, and do not help to destroy the environment. Playing with healthy toys as opposed to junk toys will decrease our child's exposure to toxins, create more demand for sustainable products, reduce environmental damage caused by chemical fibre production, plastics, and toxic chemicals.

It is often difficult to keep our homes free of 'junk toys', but the more 'healthy toys' we can give our children, the better-off they, and we, will be. What are some of the harmful things about ';junk' toys?; Most toys these days are made of plastic – producing dioxins, and often containing phthalates. Even natural fibre toys can be hiding the agricultural chemicals used in the fibre's production – children tend to handle, suck or chew toys. The paints and finishes are often toxic. Because lead paint has been banned for many years we assume paint on our children's toys or furniture is lead-free, but much of the toys and furniture in our homes is made in other countries where lead paint is still freely used. Many of the 'fun' toys are electronic or powered by batteries which can contain mercury, cadmium and lead – when used properly this is not a problem, but kids will be kids, and they can do the darnedest things.