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Soft toys are an important part of the childhood experience; It gives children a sense of security and comfort, and plays a role in developing their social and emotional skills. But choosing the right dolls, and understanding their benefits and harms, is essential to ensuring the child’s safety and providing a safe playing environment.
Psychological and social aspects
Stuffed toys are not just toys; It plays a role in developing the emotional and social aspects of children:
Develop empathy: Dolls help children learn to empathize and care for others by simulating interactive play such as feeding and cuddling dolls.
Stress relief: Stuffed toys are a comforting tool for children going through stressful situations or difficult transitions, such as going to preschool for the first time.
Harmful effects of stuffed dolls
Despite the importance of stuffed toys in the first years of a child’s life, they involve some potential harm that parents should be aware of, which are as follows:
- Harmful chemicals: Some stuffed toys may contain chemicals such as phthalates or flame retardants, which may negatively affect a child's health. A 2021 study from the University of California showed that phthalates can affect children's neurodevelopment.
- Dust and mite accumulation: Dust and mites collect inside stuffed toys, making them a suitable environment for allergies or asthma to develop, as noted by the American Academy of Pediatrics.
- Choking hazards: Dolls that contain small parts or detachable pieces may pose a choking hazard, especially for children under three years of age.
The appropriate age to use stuffed toys
Recommendations for the appropriate age for using stuffed toys vary based on safety factors:
Newborns up to 12 months: It is best to avoid large or heavily stuffed toys to avoid the risk of suffocation.
From 1-3 years: Children can use safe stuffed toys that do not have small detachable parts.
Above 3 years: The risks are lower, but it is still important to choose high-quality dolls with safe specifications.
Specifications of ideal stuffed toys
Ideal doll specifications include:
Natural materials: Dolls should preferably be made of natural materials such as organic cotton or wool and free of harmful chemicals.
Washable: To ensure hygiene, dolls should be easily washable.
Safe design: Dolls should not have sharp edges or small detachable parts to avoid choking hazard.
Criteria for selecting stuffed toys
When choosing dolls, parents should consider:
Safety certificates: Toys must bear the CE mark or a recognized safety certificate.
Size and weight: Avoid heavy or large toys for young children.
Quality: Ensure the strength of the stitching and the stability of the parts.
Types of fillings used: Choosing the type of filling is important to ensure the safety of the doll:
- Natural fiber fillings: Such as organic cotton or wool, which is healthier and reduces the risk of allergies.
- Synthetic fillings: Such as polyester, which may be lighter and more flexible, but may contain chemicals if not made to high quality.
Cleaning
It is important for parents to know how to properly care for stuffed animals to prevent dust and bacteria buildup.
Machine wash: Use a gentle cycle in cold or warm water with mild detergent, and place the doll in a laundry bag. Let it air dry.
Hand wash: Immerse the doll in lukewarm water with mild detergent, rinse well, then let dry.
Dry or steam cleaning: Use a steamer or dry cleaning powder for non-washable dolls.
Periodic disinfection: Use disinfectant wipes to wipe dolls between washes.
With these steps, you keep the dolls clean and the baby healthy.
Parents should consider health and safety aspects when choosing dolls and games for their children. The choice of toy depends on the child's age and needs, and it must be made of safe and easy-to-clean materials.
