Be aware of toxic toys.
We can never imagine a world without toys. Everyone’s life starts with a toy. Am I right parents? If a baby starts crying, immediately the parents show a toy to stop their babies crying, then the baby starts laughing because babies are attracted by colors and sounds of toys.
Are plastic toys really good for our children and our environment?
The answer is no. According to the UNEP report of 2016, the toy industry is the most plastic intensive industry in the world. It’s really unbelievable fact of plastic toys. They are using so many chemicals to make toys, like phthalates, flame retardants, bisphenol A(BPA), lead and cadmium are the examples of chemicals that are commonly used in toy industries.
Phthalates:
It is used to make plastic flexible and smell good. Some research says that phthalates lead to many health problems in adults and children like type 2 diabetes, obesity. And also, it can be effected on hormones and fertility and development. In 2022, a study published in the Jouri of national cancer institute found that high exposure of phthalates increased the chances of developing childhood cancer.
Flame retardants:
These synthetic chemicals are used in toys and so many things. These flame retardants can accumulate in people and cause adverse health effects like hormones and reproductive problems. Imbalance in thyroid and metabolic functions and neurological problems in infants and children. The federal government and various states have limited or banned the use of some of these chemicals. Many companies have voluntarily discontinued production and use of these compounds.
Bisphenol A (BPA):
This is a well-known chemical for everyone. BPA is used in so many plastic things including kid’s toys. According to the American Academy of pediatrics (AAP) studies says that BPA may pose several health risks, including behavior disorders, reproductive health concerns and diabetes.
Lead:
Lead makes the toys durable and extensively used in paints and colors. It is known that it effects IQ and causes irreversible brain damage. It effects children quickly compared to adults.
Cadmium:
Cadmium is plastic stabilizer. It is a known carcinogen. Cadmium also effected normal brain growth and can cause kidney damage.
One more reason to avoid plastic toys is, those are non-recyclable.
Environment protecters around the world have raised their voices regarding the use of plastic toys for kid that eventually end up in bins and also add up waste in landfills and oceans. Toys are visibly hard to recycle that means every plastic toy ever made will be living in a landfill.
If your child’s prone to putting things in their mouth, then definitely stay away from giving plastic toys or items. Because chemicals are instantly absorbed into their system which can be hazardous.
So, what will we do? What is the alternative for plastic toys?
Don’t worry we have an alternative for plastic toys. That is eco-friendly toys.
Eco-friendly toys mean:
Eco-friendly toys mean which are made from natural materials like wood, fabric and bamboo etc. Those types of natural materials are biodegradable and recyclable. Today it is our responsibility to choose toys made from natural materials. These eco-friendly toys are not just sustainable for the environment but are extremely safe for our children too.
Currently majority of toys on the market across the world come from China, a place where safely and environmental hazards are not a major concern for manufactures. So please avoid plastic toys specially made in China. When you buy our local made toys you will help the local craftmanship and economy alike. The eco-friendly toys are little bit high in rate, but it will give good results to you and environment. Eco-friendly toys have sheer quality and durability. It makes if far more economically in the long run. These toys ae timeless and can be passed down to siblings and friends once our child has grown up.
Something about eco-friendly toys
Toys made from wood: In Bharath wooden toys are popular in Kondapalli (Andhra Pradesh), Etikoppaka (Andhra Pradesh), Sawantwadi of Sindudurga (Maharshtra). These places are very famous for wooden toys. Wooden toys have been around for centuries. and for good reason. They offer a number of benefits that make them a great choice for children of all ages.
Wooden toys often encourage children to use their imaginations and problem- solve as they play. For example, a wooden block set allows a child to build and create, while a wooden puzzle helps to develop fine motor skills and problem-solving skills. Wooden toys are durable, they can withstand the wear and tear of everyday play and they don’t break or wear out as easily as plastic toys. This means you can feel good about investing in wooden toys, knowing that they will last years to come.
About fabric toys: Fabric toys are loved by many people. Numerous studies have shown that fabric toys have a positive effect on the development of a child. Babies love to touch and feel new textures, soft toys can provide the perfect mix for development sensory skills and encouraging social and emotional growth.
You know something: Soft toys can help babies to develop their language and communication skills. Soft toys also encourage babies to care for other people and appreciate the presence of relationship. These toys are washable and sustainable. Fabric toys are more eco-friendly and kid friendly than plastic toys for several reasons, including their washability, sustainability, and lack of harmful chemicals. Fabric toys are made from sustainable materials like cotton or recycled fabrics, and they can be refused and repurposed for years to come. This makes them a much eco-friendlier option and one that parents can feel good about purchasing for their children. The prints and colors of fabric toys can help stimulate their visual and cognitive development.
This is why fabric toys are often recommended for younger children who are just starting to explore the world around them. Another good advantage of fabric toy is that they often come in handmade varieties. Handmade fabric toys are not only unique and beautiful, but they can also support local communities and artisans. Additionally, handmade fabric toys often have a personal touch and a sense of warmth and love that cannot be replicated in mass-produced plastic toys.
Conclusion: After reading this blog post you might get some clarity for choosing good things for your children. Please avoid that harmful chemical plastic toys. Buy eco-friendly toys.
FAQ’s
1. Can kids toys be toxic?
A. Some plastic toys are unsafe for kids as they leach and contain dangerous toxics, such as DEHP, BPA and Phthalates.
2. Do plastic toys release toxic?
A. yes plastic toys release toxic.
3. Do toys cause pollution?
A. Plastic toys are harmful to the environment both is their production as well as their disposal as they create large amounts of greenhouse gases and other emissions.
4. What makes a toy eco-friendly?
A. They might be recyclable or made with materials that break down over time.
5. What is the safest material for children’s toys?
A. Cotton, wool and uncoated wood.
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