It's that time of year again - advice?

[mustangtbn]

Between DD's upcoming birthday, grandparent visits and the approaching holidays, the onslaught of plastic, MIC and other potentially harmful gifts for DD has already begun. I STILL have a bunch from last year, because word was Salvation Army wasn't accepting toys that might be unsafe (plus I worry about giving away possibly unsafe toys so unknowing people can give them to their kids). I don't feel comfortable just sending them to the landfill either, though - they are new, and it's not like they're recalled, I'm just concerned that they are be unsafe because they are plastic, MIC, not age-appropriate, etc.

So, I had them tucked away in a box, but then DH (who at one point knew why they were hidden away, but apparently forgot) found the box, opened all the toys and gave them to DD. So, obviously I need to get them completely out of the house.

FWIW, we've already discussed our concerns about these types of toys with extended family - some of whom have really taken our concerns to heart , and some of whom could care less and get DD whatever they want. : I mean, it's nice that they get her anything, but I don't want to have to worry about her well-being here. Anyway, what do you do when your DC receive these types of gifts?

[kylatay]

There are some children that don't get many (if any) presents for Christmas. (Foster children, ie) I would think the benefit of getting a gift would out weigh the possible risk to the child.

I was one of these children, and I truely think that not getting presents would have a more negative affect on my health that getting one made of plastic.

Of course try to get your relatives to understand why you don't want these toys, but if they don't listen or care, see if you can find someone(s) to give these toys to.

K

[paphia]

Maybe you could put them up on Freecycle, for the folks who are fine with getting plastic toys?

I also like the idea about donating them to kids who wouldn't get any gifts otherwise.

[kylatay]

Good point about Freecycle. If people get a free plastic gift, maybe it'll be one less than they "have to" buy......thus the demand for one less plastic toy to be made.

Or at least one would hope so.

[mustangtbn]

Good ideas, regarding both Freecycle and donating. I agree that it would be better if they were used by other kids who wouldn't get anything, or better someone else has them than buying new plastic toys and increasing what will eventually go in the landfill overall.

Thanks, I feel much better about rounding them up and giving them away now!