3 essential rules for choosing a toy

Come on, we'll summarize the basic rules that will help you avoid toys that are dangerous or harmful to children.

These common sense tips are provided by the French Federation of Toy and Childcare Industries .

First thing to do, look at the name of the seller or manufacturer

• Is this a brand or company you are familiar with?
• If you don't know them, is they a real business (does they have a website, registered address, etc.) when you look them up online?
• A quick look at the legal notices of a site can be useful, they are obligatory, if you cannot find them easily, move on!

A quick search in your browser will enlighten you.

2) Are you really getting a good deal?

• Is the price of the toy comparable to other toys of the same type?
• Is the toy significantly cheaper from this seller than from other sellers?

These differences can be explained by the fact that the seller has reduced security-related costs.

3) Checks that may hold surprises

• Once you have the toy in your hands, check that the address of the manufacturer or European importer is on the toy or its packaging: this is a legal requirement for ALL toys sold in the EU .
• Check for the presence of the CE marking: the presence of the CE marking means that the toy complies with strict and precise safety requirements, set at European level.
• Check the country of manufacture : just because the company is French or European doesn't necessarily mean the item you bought is! Don't hesitate to check out our blog post on French-washing and Made in France labels .

I also invite you to play a little game: check the stuffed animals and toys in your children's room that you are absolutely certain are produced in France or Europe and indicate in the comments your good and bad surprises (this also works for clothes).