Those adorable and oh-so-cuddly stuffed animals are not so attractive anymore once you learn about the dangers that their synthetic materials can pose to your child. When the excuse, "you grew up fine" no longer withholds...read on to learn how to protect your child from harmful substances.
What's the harm? Cuddly and soft stuffed animals can bring a child comfort and love, right? Stuffed animals that are made from synthetic materials don't love your child back.
They are constructed with chemicals such as azocolourants, lead, or chromium, which are contained in dyes or pigments. These dyes are carcinogenic, which means they have been linked to cancer, and pose a risk to the developing brain. Many stuffed animals are also guilty of containing flame retardants, and sadly even formaldehyde. These chemicals can irritate the central nervous system and reproductive system. PFC's, or perfluorinated chemicals, ensure that the stuffed animals is water and soil repellent, which also adds another layer of toxicity to the fabric. There are numerous substances besides these that go into the construction of cuddly animals, none of which are helpful to your child's growth and development.
Why do they pose a danger to children?
Children are more sensitive and susceptible to toxic chemicals since their immune systems are underdeveloped, and their larger "surface area" relative to their weight. Their skin is less of a barrier from harmful substances, and instead more of like a sponge. People don't realize that toys, furniture, and even clothing or fabrics can pose a significant danger to children if they are made from toxic chemicals.
Healthy and Cuddly Alternatives
Under the Nile They also make fruit and veggie stuffed toys
Bella Luna Toys makes Waldorf Dolls
Farm Buddies (my daughter's favorite)
If you are creating a registry for your child, or buying a gift for someone else, do them and yourself a favor and choose a gift that poses no threat or danger to their child. Instead of feeding into the larger companies that mass produce toxic toys from China, support smaller businesses that utilize earth friendly materials and have a child-centered focus. Be the change. Start the trend. Choose to surround your child with organic and ethically sound materials.
댓글