Let’s play
Playing – along with sleeping and eating – is the favourite activity of children. The cuddly toy becomes the best friend, castles grow out of building blocks and dreams, artistic masterpieces are created on paper, toys go on great adventures and the child’s imagination creates new worlds. A toy does not have to be educationally meaningful – but it should always be right for the age; safe, sturdy and non-toxic.
Toys on the European market are subject to certain safety rules that the producer certifies with the “CE” label. But this is not enough. There are gaps in the certification scheme, for example with regards to harmful substances. That is why you should look for the “GS” and TÜV labels that indicate high safety levels. And avoid toys made of PVC. Durable toys made of natural and non-toxic materials are most suited. This does not mean that wooden toys are always preferable. They should not be made of plywood and painted or coloured material and should carry the DIN 53160 label to make sure the paint is sweat and saliva resistant.
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