How can I reduce plastic toys in my home? 3 tips for sustainable open-ended toys

Are you fed up with all those plastic toys, action-packed items, and flashing lights? No worries , if your toy collection turns out differently than you envisioned. It's never too late to make different choices.

3 tips to reduce plastic toys

Tip 1 - Make conscious toy choices from now on

Every new toy you buy now meets your requirements, for example:

• It is made sustainably.
• Does not work on battery.
• Lasts a long time.
• Combines easily with other toys.

Determine which requirements toys must meet for you.

Sensory toys like beanbags don't require batteries, last for years, and can be combined with all other toys. They're open-ended toys , so your child decides what they're for.

Play cloths (or play silk) and stacking stones also meet all these requirements. They stimulate the imagination without flashing lights and music. Because children can use their imaginations, they often play with them for years.

Tip 2 - Make gift lists with sustainable toys

From now on, never celebrate without a wish list. Make them for a child's birthday, Sinterklaas, or Christmas. Also, be honest about wanting to cut down on (plastic) toys. And about wanting the toys on the list.

I can hear you thinking... no, not everyone listens to this. But even if just one person does, you've already won!

We always make our list via www.lijstje.nl , but there are many wish list websites.

Tip 3 - Tidy up the play corner

You're thoroughly tidying the play area. You don't have to throw everything away at once. Throw away anything broken or incomplete. Get rid of toys you don't enjoy. Add one new, sustainable toy that you think would be a nice addition.

Your play area will immediately look more peaceful, with fewer toys and toys that make you happy. And that's just as important.

Help! I don't know what kind of sustainable toys to start with.

I understand. There's so much choice. My children have been playing with sustainable toys since they were babies, and I talk to many other parents who primarily have sustainable, open-ended toys. So I've compiled a list of toys that are a hit with children aged 0 to 6. The beanbags, for example, are also perfect baby toys!

Sustainable toys to get you started:

1. Sensory beanbag toys - for throwing, rattling, feeling, stacking, sorting, learning colors & role-playing.
2. Stacking stones - for stacking, stepping stones, containers & sorting.
3. Playcycle play cloths - for touching, pulling out of a tissue box, dressing up, peek-a-boo & dancing.
4. Magnetic tiles - for building, sorting & role-playing.
5. Toy animals - learn animal sounds and names & role play.

Bonus tip to avoid impulse purchases

Buy gifts for Saint Nicholas, Christmas, or birthdays in advance. This way, you won't be tempted by last-minute shopping sprees and you'll be ready in time!

Simply being mindful of what new toys you buy makes a world of difference. A sustainable toy collection isn't something you build overnight; it grows over the years. It doesn't mean all other toys are off-limits either. Just find what suits you. And start making more conscious choices from now on.

P.S. There's no right or wrong. It's important that you find what works for you. You do you!

Frequently asked questions about sustainable toys

How can I reduce the amount of plastic toys in my home?
Make conscious choices when choosing new toys, share wish lists at birthday parties, and tidy up the play corner. Gradually replace plastic with sustainable toys like beanbags and play cloths.

What is a good alternative to plastic toys?
Sensory toys like beanbags, play cloths, stacking stones, and wooden animals are sustainable alternatives. They last for years and stimulate the imagination without batteries.

What is the difference between open-ended and sensory toys?
Open-ended toys have no set rules. A child decides what they'll be. Sensory toys specifically stimulate the senses (touch, hearing, sight). Many sensory toys are also open-ended, such as beanbags and play cloths. But that's not always the case.

What is sustainable toys?
Sustainable can have multiple meanings. It can mean toys made from natural materials. Or it can mean toys that last a very long time because of their quality. Or it can last a long time because they have a variety of uses and remain fun for years. Therefore, it's good to determine for yourself what sustainable means to you.

At what age can you start using sustainable toys?
You can start using sustainable toys from birth. Sensory bean bags and small play cloths are perfect as baby toys from 3 months. Looking for more sustainable baby toys? Then check out our collection of sensory toys for babies and toddlers.