Before buying a toy, the first consideration should be its health. We’ve seen a lot of recent news about unhealthy plastics and paints in inexpensive children’s toys. Making sure any toy you select is healthy should be your number one priority.

Second, take into account its entire lifecycle. Toys and games such as Noughts and Crosses and Chess Sets can last throughout, if not past, childhood. Also ask yourself, “Is it recyclable?” Incredibly durable toys can get passed along through thrift stores or family hand-me-downs. Those that do go out the door should be recyclable or biodegradable whenever possible.

Maybe this scene is familiar? The kids beg for the latest whizmo gizmos. You give in. And when the festive frenzy of unwrapping is finished, their favorite toy is ..... the big empty box. This year’s gift giving will be different, you vow. But how? Choose instead to give playthings that are good for your children, good for the earth, and easier on your conscience.

Healthy Materialism

Many toys don’t list "ingredients," so sorting out the good from the bad may seem daunting. It doesn’t have to be. Stick to reputable manufacturers and retailers, and seek out labels that tout their child-safe, nontoxic finishes.

Old-fashioned, timeless wooden toys such as building blocks, trucks, and puzzles inspire boundless creativity and infinite adaptations. Besides, solid wood is super-durable.

Unhealthy Materialism

Consider carefully manufactured toys and games, especially for babies or toddlers, who are more likely to sample toys by mouth. Many toy manufacturers set and meet high standards for materials and mechanical safety, but many don’t. If you can’t find safety information, a materials list, or manufacturer standards on a toy’s packaging or a website, steer away.

Young children’s smaller size and faster metabolism make them especially susceptible to absorbing hazardous levels of harmful substances from items they handle or chew.