There was a very helpful article on CNN.com yesterday (December 9, 2008) about safe toys for babies and toddlers. I wanted to blog about it because I know moms are concerned about the rise in lead poisonings from toxic paints and other dangers caused by plastics and particle board in toys. This Christmas we have options for keeping our kids safe.The article titled, "Bringing Up Baby with Safe Green Toys" really shifted my focus on the types of toys I'll be purchasing for my 5 year old son and baby (due any day).
http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/family/12/08/HM.kids.going.green/index.html
CNN's expert, Dr. Alan Greene, a professor of pediatrics at Stanford University in Palo Alto, California, gives the following advice about choosing safe and organic toys.
In his book "Raising Baby Green, The Earth-Friendly Guide to Pregnancy, Childbirth, and Baby Care," he tells parents to take the time to examine the materials used in the toys.
"Choose natural toys, and those might be toys made out of solid wood, especially if it's not finished or has a non-toxic finish," Greene recommended. "Toys that are made out of fiber, such as cotton, especially organic cotton, wool or hemp, or toys made out of bamboo can be really nice choices."
He warned parents to beware of wooden toys made from pressed wood or particle board.
"Some of those will have toxic substances in the glue," he noted. "Unless you know it is safe, I would skip that this year."
Greene said toxics can be found in certain plastic toys, too. He worries the most about toys and baby items containing phthalates, PVC and bisphenol-A.
He advised parents to look for recycling symbols on plastic toys. "If it has recycling symbol number 1, 2, 4 or 5, that means it does not have those chemicals in there," he said.
I feel lucky to have come across this article. Especially since I haven't started my Christmas shopping yet! I hope it helps you too.
Candi Carter
CEO and Founder, "It's Hip Hop, Baby!"
4 comments:
Well, I feel lucky to have been sent to your blog. I had not heard about this, and I will use the information in the future. Thanks for spreading the news!
Thanks so much for the information. I had no clue about the particle board. Makes me think!
Is that dog you have listed on the "bad" list? If not, can you tell me where to find it? I have been trying to find a wood pull along doggie for my boys! Thanks!
The dog is not on that list. It's a generic image used for the blog. However, there is a great store in Oak Park IL that specializes in wooden toys. It's called, "Geppettos Toy Box" 708-445-9906. I'm sure they have one or can order one for you.
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