Are you running out to grab a few more items to put under the tree over the next few days? If so, try to follow these rules of toy buying for a better planet and a safer product:

Avoid Cheap Toys
If something looks too cheap for what it is, look at the country of origin. If it is made in China, and it contains parts that the child could put in its mouth, move on to another product.

Go for High Playability
Rather than spending $20.00 on a few gifts to give the appearance of quantity, put yourself in the child’s shoes. Will they really care if they are getting a lot of stuff that will just get tossed in the toy bin on Boxing Day? Find out what they want with a quick phone call and buy them one item on the list, with a gift receipt so that the parents can take it back if they get duplicates.

Eco-Packaging
This year Barbie has a fairy line that comes in eco-friendly packaging. When I went to Toys ‘R’ Us this weekend, it was the only really thin shelf in the store. Kids love anything that is eco-friendly, since this is a message that is being broadcasted to them in cartoons and children’s programming. Get them what they want AND save the planet. While it is a bit late to order eco-friendly toys online, go at least for a lack of packaging or eco-friendly packaging.

Webkinz
Kids from about 6 to 10 love the online games that purchasing a Ganz toy gives them access to. You can buy them a virtual deluxe year-long membership on the site for $45.00. No packaging, and they will love you forever.

Tags: Eco friendly toys, last minute shopping, safe toy shopping, sustainable packaging toys

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