Choosing Kids Toys - Wooden Or Plastic ?

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Plastic or wooden toys, the debate of what to use is often more of a contest than a real examination of practical use, needs, and compromise. Realistically most products do have value in different situations. The argument of whether to choose wooden or plastic toys can be calmly resolved by rational parents who look at the use of the toy, the family budget, and make practical choices about when to use which types of products.

Cleaning

Outdoor toys that are used in dirt, or spend a good deal of time stored outside often are great choices for plastic. A nice soapy bath and most toys are cleaned and sanitized. Smaller play structures produced by Little Tikes are highly recommended by parents. They like the style and the creativity they inspire in children. They also are easily hosed down after a day of playing. Many families purchase solid wood play structures for older children citing durability and the child centered activities provided. It should be noted, that many of these structures while having a wooden structure base do use plastic accessories. It seems that the either or argument is often ignored in the face of practical choices.

Safety

Several issues are cited regarding the safety of plastic and wooden toys. Since young children often place toys in their mouths, there is a concern about sanitizing toys that can end up in germy locations. Parents often like the idea that plastic is easier than wood to clean. That ignores the problem that plastic is porous and can retain germs. Most parents do discover their children live through the dangers of toys and germs. For parents who have children who are chewing or still placing toys in their mouths and are concerned about sanitizing wooden and plastic toys, cloth washable toys may be the best alternative. The majority of parents seem to use wooden and plastic toys and still raise healthy children.

Another concern mentioned is the weight of the toys. Parents who have had plastic missiles hurled at them can testify that while wood may be heavier, a well-aimed plastic toy can do damage. One option is to choose age appropriate toys and to deal with materials that are safe for other family members in throwing range. If a child is going through a period of throwing toys, perhaps this is not the time to play with wooden or plastic toys. Instead substituting soft toys until the child can keep from harming himself and others might be an alternative. A return of favorite plastic and wooden toys can be a reward for learning self-control.

It does seem that while the debate may be fierce at times, most parents do make the decisions that best suit their familys play interests, time, and budgetary needs. While marketing does try to convince consumers otherwise, most find there is a healthy balance in using both plastic and wooden toys in their childs play spaces.


About the Author:
Choosing kids toys is very important. Make sure you get the best product for your child.



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