Many plastic toys contain toxic phthalates and Bisphenol-A (BPA), which leach out more readily in the heat. Of course,that's not going to stop a baby from chewing on a sand shovel. Such behavior is part of normal development, which, alas, these chemicals can interfere with. For that matter, adults, given a choice, may prefer to go hormone-disruptor-free in products they eat and drink from, as shown by the surge of interest in the new reusable water bottles and baby bottles made without BPA. Below are some safer, greener plastics for playing and picnicking, made of recycled non-leaching plastic.

Green Toys sand bucket, castle mold, fork and shovel made in the U.S. from recycled #2 milk jugs, now on sale for $16.95 at Kangarooboo.com

For picnics, lightweight, reusable bright plastic cups, plates, bowls and cutlery, plus a big sturdy collander that could alternate as a sand sifter, are made from recycled #5 plastic by Recycline.  To children, things always taste best in miniature portions and dishes, like this Green Toys setting for 4 with utensils, plates, bowls, cups, a frypan and covered casserole. There's also a tea party set for when the mad hatter, doormouse and friends stop by, both from recycled milk jugs, at Greenfeet.com .

And even though they're not plastic, we couldn't resist these classic wooden toy sailboats that will float in tide pool, bath tub or sandcastle moat.

Posted by Mindy Pennybacker on Jul 2, 2008 at 9:55 AM
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