It seems that we are told on a daily basis that our ideas of sustainability and our “needs” will change when we have kids. I believe these people. I truly do. But I also believe in children adapting to the environment they are raised in. If you don’t saturate your child’s life with toys and such, they will know no different. But the problem I hear is that OTHER people want to “bless” your child even more than you do. They give toys, clothes, books, etc. as if the child were there own. Inevitably the child will outgrow said toys, clothes, and books though. What then? There just doesn’t seem to be enough space for it all. How about the basement or attic? Is there space enough to pack up and store the toys? And even if there is, is that the right thing to do?
Rather than going the “hoarders” route or the “wasteful, throw it away” path, how about trying the recycle option? Are you aware that there are children who would love to play with your child’s discarded toys? Remember, one man’s junk is another man’s treasure. And in the case of children, there is little discrimination when it comes to gifts. Your child’s old toys are another child’s new toys! Of course, this post is assuming your child’s toys are in good, playable condition; not broken. While these toys are used, they are also in a condition which will allow them to be used again. I am not referring to broken toys. Trucks with two wheels missing, dolls with limbs missing, or puzzles with pieces missing do not qualify!
First of all, share the experience with your child. Once you identify that your child no longer plays with a particular toy, why not take advantage of this occasion to encourage your child to be generous by donating the toy to a good cause? You might be pleasantly surprised to find that your child will be more than willing to part with an outgrown toy, knowing that other little girls and boys would be delighted to receive the toy. Your child might actually come to you on his own and let you know of other toys he’d like to share with other children. Not likely, but possible – especially if the child has seen mommy or daddy donate!
So, now that you have an outgrown toy (or better yet, a pile of outgrown toys!) where do you donate it/them?
Goodwill, Salvation Army, and Other Charity Stores
When you give to an organization like Goodwill or Salvation Army, you are almost giving twice! You not only get the satisfaction of knowing that your child’s toy is going to be enjoyed by another child, but you also get the satisfaction of knowing that the charity employs people to run the organization. You are also free to ask for a receipt that you can claim on your taxes as a charitable donation.
Library
Of course, the public library system is a great place for children to be exposed to books. Donating your child’s gently read books to your local library is a way for the library to expand its offerings as well as support local literacy. There are a lot of underfunded public and private libraries now that would love almost new copies of books; new and traditional! The same goes for your child’s magazines. I personally grew up reading ‘Ranger Rick‘ at the local library!
Hospital
A great way to recycle your child’s unwanted toys is to donate them to the children’s ward at your local hospital. When children are in the hospital for long or short stays, it’s always nice for them to have access to new (to them!) toys.
Charities
Places like Boys Town or Ronald McDonald Houses are great recipients of used toys. Because of the many children who reside in these places, it seems like they could always be in need of more toys.
Schools
Your child might enjoy giving his unwanted toys to his school. Classes for Special Needs children are often in need of developmental toys that can be used to teach different skills. And with all the budget cuts that school districts are experiencing, recycled toys would be greatly appreciated! Be sure to speak with the principle first and not the classroom teacher. You don’t want to risk breaking the rules or, even worse, the law!
Family Shelters and Battered Women’s Shelters
Homeless shelters are very worthy recipient of toys. Children living in shelters are already feeling the anguish associated with not having a home of their own. Your child’s unwanted toys could make a big difference to these children. Remember that your child’s old toys will be new toys to other children!
High School and College Day Cares
A lot of high schools and colleges have day care drop-offs for parents who are students. Donating your child’s unwanted toys to these day cares guarantees that your child’s toys will either be used at the day care or given to a child in need of toys.
Remember, the toy you are holding may be old to its current owner, but to another boy or girl it is a brand new toy or book. By recycling your children’s toys, clothes, and books, everyone wins! Your own child can experience the gift of giving and generosity while learning about recycling and upcycling. A boy or girl gets a new toy they may not otherwise have received. Your house stays clean and clear of clutter.
So did I miss anything? Is there anyplace you regularly donate to? What are some other places or ways to breathe new life into that favorite, used toy, book or item of clothing? As always, if you like this post be sure to Tweet about it or Share it with your friends on Facebook!