Toy shoppers are increasingly looking for eco-friendly toys and are considering non-flexible hard plastics, wooden, organic or untreated cotton toys. Environmental groups, such as Environment Defence Canada, are recommending avoidance of soft plastic toys, lead paint products and PVC plastics – plastics #3 (PVC) and #6 (polystyrene).
Suggested Materials for Green Toys
Eco-friendly toys can be made of many different materials, including:
- Rubberwood. This is made from the wood of abandoned rubber trees.
- Bamboo. This sustainable grass grows quickly and abundantly with little care. It produces a light flexible material suitable for toys and clothing.
- Organic cotton or wool – Cotton and wool are free of potentially dangerous chemical pesticides, which could be harmful to children.
- Wood. Look for sustainable or recycled wood bits. Be sure it is made out of wood grown and harvested in an ecologically sound manner – not rainforest wood.
- Recycled toys. These are made from recycled materials such as old milk jugs and drink containers or paper, wood and cardboard.
- Colours and dyes. Look for natural or organic colours and dyes made from non-toxic herbs and plants.
- Batteries. Try to avoid toys with batteries.
Best Eco-Friendly Kid's Christmas Toys
- Paintable Cottage and Firehouse Rescue Station.These are eco-friendly arts and craft toys with their own set of eight, washable, non-toxic water colors and made of sturdy double walled durable corrugated board. This toy set is produced in the U.S.A by Imagination Box Company and has won the Top Toy of the Year Award from Creative Child Magazine in 2008; iParenting Media Hot Toy Award 2008; Dr Toys Best Products Award. Each set costs about $12.
- Dancing Alligator. This colorful wooden pull toy makes a rhythmic clicking sounds when being pulled. It is created by Plan Toys and made from organic rubberwood that is kiln-dried instead of chemically treated. It is also made with non-formaldehyde glue and water-based dye. It received the Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Award. It is priced at $19.
- Fire Engine – Plan Toys. The Fire Engine is equipped with a rotating and extendable ladder, fire hose, fire extinguisher and two firefighters made from organic rubberwood that is kiln-dried instead of chemically treated (natural, non-petroleum based, renewable materials). It is also made with non-formaldehyde glue and water-based dye. Since there are small parts that can turn into choking hazards, it is not suitable for children less than 3 years old. The engine is selling at about $65.
- 8-Note Bamboo Xylophone. This is handmade using natural organic materials and fair trade principles. It is a simple but fun musical instrument and costs about $48.
- Eco-Plush Stuffed Animals by Aurora.These soft, cuddly stuffed animals are handmade from sustainable ingredients, a hypoallergenic, ecological sound alternative to traditional fibers. They are made from 100% soybean fiber and the stuffing is 100% kapok, a sustainable rainforest crop. Each toy costs about $10 to $24.
- Science Kits by THAMES & KOSMOS. These fun interactive educational kits teach kids about wind power, renewable energy, global warming, weather, animals, and plants by having children conduct hands-on experiments. They are suitable for various school age children. The price ranges from $16 to $40.
Other Green Gift Suggestions
There are many other green gifts that parents can buy for children. These include:
- Sturdy eco-friendly re-used toys puchased from thrift or consignment shops.
- Books from recycled paper and cardboards.
- Craft sets, art supplies, puzzles, and blocks.
- Recreation centre memberships, dance classes and sports passes.
Green Toy Sources
Parents in search of eco-friendly toys can check out companies like Urbanecologie.com, Chapters Indigo, PlanToys.com, Green-Living.com as well as some thrift and consignment stores. Also, find out more about Dr. Toy's Best Green Products. If possible, try to buy toys made in your local area because products that have been shipped from long distance locations will incur extra transportation costs and put more strain on the global environment.
The list of eco-sensitive, stimulating gifts continues to grow as parents request manufacturers to jump on board to create enjoyable products from non-toxic ingredients.
Other related articles: Gifts for Children and Educational Toys.
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