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.
Toys for small children
Because small children and babies put the most things in their mouths, toys for children up to three years of age have additional requirements. It is very important, therefore, that the toys contain no formaldehyde or harmful softeners (phthalates). Toys with small parts that are easily broken off and could be swallowed must be avoided. Rather choose a teddy bear where the eyes are sewn onto the material than loose beady eyes. The toys should be of high manufacturing quality, tough and without sharp corners and edges. Cuddly toys should be washable and their first place – before playing and suckling – should be the washing machine.
The first toys don’t need to be complicated. Babies learn a lot and fast, but shouldn’t be overtaxed. A small cuddly toy, a good rattle, a play trapeze, a dummy/soother chain for the pushchair and even the teething ring are all well suited. A blanket, for playing on, makes sense. Other daily objects, such as a wooden spoon, are good to play with. As long as it is made of non-toxic materials and is large enough not to be swallowed.
And once the child is older, the choice of toy is not the only important thing. Exercise and the possibility of running around are essential for the physical and neuromuscular development.
