Dear Toy Designers,
Let’s have a heart-to-heart. You’re often on my mind, sparking both admiration and frustration. It’s a love-hate relationship, really. I cherish the moments when my little one is happily occupied with a toy, giving me a blessed moment to catch up on the latest memes. But then there are times—like when she’s in the tub, and a cute little squirt toy turns into a dark, moldy horror show—that I seriously question your design choices.
So, I’m here to lay down my personal commandments for toddler toys. Grab your sketchpads because here’s my top 10 list of do’s and don’ts!
- Make Cleanability a Priority
Please design toys that can be taken apart completely for cleaning. I’m not a fan of wrestling with baby bottle brushes just to get to the crumbs stuck in those impossible crevices. - Simplicity is Key
Instead of making toys that can come apart, consider crafting them as a single piece. Fewer seams and holes mean less time spent cursing while scrubbing off mysterious goo. - No Water, No Mold
If a toy can get wet, ensure there’s a reliable way to drain it. Nobody wants to deal with moldy surprises, especially when my daughter is watching with wide eyes. - Avoid Mold Traps
Water play sounds fun, but if it’s going to get wet, keep it mold-proof. No textured areas for slime to hide, please! - Provide the Tools
If your toy requires a screwdriver, make sure it comes with one—especially if it’s a non-standard size. Parents don’t always have a full toolbox handy! - Keep It User-Friendly
If my toddler can figure it out, I should be able to, too. Please don’t create toys that make me feel like I need a degree in engineering just to operate them. - Silence is Golden
How about crafting toys that don’t make noise at all? If noise is necessary, please steer clear of those high-pitched, repetitive sounds—my sanity thanks you! - Washable Fabrics Only
If your toy has fabric, it should be removable for cleaning. It also needs to withstand the rigors of both washer and dryer. - Ditch the Watch Batteries
Those tiny batteries are a pain to replace. They’re also a safety concern. Let’s avoid those altogether, shall we? - Affordability is a Must
Please don’t make toys that cost as much as a car payment. Toddlers are experts at destruction, and I have no intention of spending a fortune on something they might just wreck.
In closing, I genuinely appreciate you, Toy Makers. Your work, even if my daughter’s toys often lie forgotten in favor of a cardboard box, is invaluable. And by the way, if you’re dealing with those moldy bath toys, a dab of glue in the holes can work wonders!
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Summary:
This article offers a humorous yet practical list of ten essential guidelines for toddler toy makers, emphasizing cleanliness, simplicity, safety, and affordability. From ensuring toys are easy to clean to avoiding noisy designs, these tips can help create safer and more enjoyable products for both toddlers and their parents.