Dear Toddler Toy Creators,
You may not realize how often I think about you throughout my day. I find myself both praising your genius and lamenting your decisions—such is the paradox of parenthood, right?
I appreciate the moments of peace you provide when my child is lost in play, conjuring up adventures with a stuffed gorilla and a bright green turtle. Yet, I also find myself frustrated when she’s splashing in the tub, wielding a cute plastic toy that suddenly transforms into a black mold factory, spraying her and my sanity in the process.
Thus, I present to you a playful proclamation—a list of 10 do’s and don’ts for creating toddler toys that are both enjoyable and practical.
- Ensure Easy Cleaning
Design toys that can be taken apart completely for cleaning. I’d rather not have to wield a baby bottle brush to fish out remnants of a soggy cracker. - Keep It Simple
Instead of complex constructions, opt for one-piece designs. This eliminates seams and holes that become nightmare traps for grime during cleaning. - Avoid Water Traps
Toys shouldn’t allow water to enter unless there’s a way to remove it completely. Mold isn’t just a nuisance; it leads to toys being tossed in the trash while my child looks on in horror. - Be Mold-Aware
Water-themed toys might seem fun, but they should lack textured areas where mold can hide. If it gets wet, it needs to be mold-resistant. - Provide the Right Tools
If a toy requires assembly with screws that aren’t standard sizes, include a screwdriver. Parents don’t always have the right tools handy. - Design for All Ages
If a toddler can use it, so should their parents. Don’t make toys so complicated that they leave us feeling inept. I’m already good at that on my own! - Minimize Noise Pollution
Toys should be quiet. If they must make sounds, please avoid high-pitched, repetitive noises that drive parents to the brink of madness. - Use Washable Fabrics
If a toy has fabric, it should be removable and washable. And let’s make sure it survives the washer and dryer—looking at you, cute fabric couches that fold into beds! - Ditch the Tiny Batteries
Avoid using those tiny watch batteries that seem impossible to replace and are a choking hazard. - Keep It Affordable
Let’s be honest: toddlers are hard on toys. I won’t spend a fortune on something that might get broken in a matter of days, especially when my child seems more interested in a tower of paper towel rolls than any fancy gadget.
In all seriousness, thank you to all the Toddler Toy Creators out there. Your efforts are appreciated, even if my daughter often ignores her toys in favor of a ribbon and a paper towel tower.
And here’s a handy tip: if you seal the holes of squeeze bath toys with a bit of glue, you can prevent them from turning into a moldy mess. Not that I would know from experience, of course!
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In summary, the creation of toddler toys should balance fun and functionality. With these guidelines, you can help make parenting just a little bit easier!