Toys
It’s hard to resist buying toys that will put a smile on the face of a child who is ill, but in this world of toy recalls it’s important to be an informed parent. Toys that can cause physical injury and choking hazards are widely reported or recalled, but there are also chemical contaminants found in children’s toys to be concerned about.
The first thing to be aware of is the potential harm from the chemicals used in plastic, the most common material used to manufacture toys. Researchers have found over a hundred chemicals of concern in plastic toys, including some that are regulated in the U.S. but not in other countries which make toys for the U.S. market. There are other chemicals that are found in recycled plastic and what are called “regrettable substitutions,” which are chemicals substituted for known harmful chemicals that turn out to be hazardous themselves.
The most practical way to reduce exposure to chemicals in plastic toys is to reduce the amount of new toys that are given to children. Studies show that the quality of child play is negatively influenced by too many toys and that having fewer toys increases creativity and focus.
Of special concern are plastic toys made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a material universally recognized for its toxicity. PVC is the plastic bearing the #3 recycling code, and new PVC toys usually have a strong odor. Chemical components of PVC may include lead and phthalates which may contribute to serious health problems, so it is especially important to avoid this plastic for items that will be mouthed by young children. For teethers, organic fabric or wood is best.
U.S. law sets a stringent standard for lead content in children’s toys, but some foreign manufacturers of inexpensive metal toy jewelry or trinkets still use lead, or have replaced it with cadmium, an even more dangerous heavy metal not currently prohibited by U.S. law. Young children are most at risk because they may chew or suck on these items.
Choose stuffed toys that are machine-washable and made from safe fabric and filling materials. Unwashable toys are often treated with chemicals to make their fabrics stain and water-resistant. These chemicals may exacerbate symptoms in allergic or asthmatic children and may be implicated in more serious health problems for any child. Younger children, who often put their hands or toys in their mouths, are especially vulnerable. New toys should be washed before your child plays with them, and then washed regularly. Placing them in the dryer on high heat will also kill dust mites.
New research on plush toys made from synthetic or “plastic” fabrics warns that tiny plastic fibers may shed from the toy and be inhaled or ingested by children. While we do not yet have conclusive studies on what impact micro- and nanoplastics can have on our health, if we have a choice, it is always better to err on the side of safety. Researchers suggest that synthetic plush toys should not be taken to bed where they are held throughout the night. Cotton velour fabric has a similar soft feel and many toy manufacturers are now using this textile for huggable stuffed toys.
Art activities can engage children of all ages, providing an outlet for creativity, expression and distraction. Even if your child has not previously shown a keen interest in art, a gift of a new set of colored pencils, beeswax crayons or watercolor paints and a blank pad may inspire them to try a new activity. Studies show that engaging in all types of art reduces stress and promotes positive feelings.
Be aware that some art materials may contain toxic chemicals, so care must be taken when selecting them for your child. Look for labels from the Art and Creative Materials Institute (ACMI), an organization made up of art supply manufacturers, who voluntarily agree to have their materials evaluated and tested by independent toxicologists. Their AP (approved product) label appears on all art supplies determined to be safe for children.
Markers are most often used by kids for drawing, so be sure to look for those with the AP label. If no label is present, avoid markers that are labeled “permanent,” “waterproof,” or “scented,” which usually contain alcohol-based solvents. More toxic solvents, such as toluene and xylene are found in paint markers. It is also wiser to steer clear of oil paints and turpentine, fabric paints, spray adhesives, aerosols, super-glues, rubber cement, polymer clays, and pastel chalks.
Paper is a wonderful art material for making collages, origami paper crafts, cut outs, place cards, original birthday and holiday cards, and little books.
Encourage your child to draw a picture from his or her imagination or perhaps suggest painting or drawing from nature. Leaves, flowers, pinecones and seedpods can easily be brought inside and arranged to inspire a still life masterpiece!
Also, always make sure there is adequate ventilation in your child’s work space and that they wash his/her hands after using any art materials, especially before eating.
Safe Toy Resources
Bella Luna Toys - Collection of natural, wooden & imaginative toys.
Plan Toys - Wooden, non-toxic toys for children.
Nova Natural – Eco-friendly and socially responsible products that encourage children’s creativity and spirit.
Odin Parker - Colleciton of heirloom, safe toys from Europe for children.
Safe Art Supplies
Eco-Kids Art Supplies - Natural and non-toxic, safe for children and the environment.
Natural Earth Paint - Non-toxic, earth-based paints and craft kits.
CrayonRocks – “Simply the best coloring tool for children.”
Safe Products and Solutions
Arbico Organics – Natural control of cockroaches and other indoor pests.
Gardens Alive – Environmentally responsible pest control products that really work.
Earth Easy – Non-toxic pest control.