Toys are meant to bring joy to children while educating them at the same time. Plushies, figurines, toy cars, or even simple items such as toy buckets – all bring a smile to kids’ faces. Despite this, toys are frequently purchased without considering their educational value or suitability for children’s requirements, which could potentially result in grave consequences, such as adversely impacting their mental health. Asking someone knowledgeable for their advice before purchasing a gift for a child could help. That’s where Spiel gut label comes into play by ensuring consumers that a toy is safe.
What is Spiel gut label?
The Spiel gut label (“play well” in German) has been in place in Germany since 1954. A toy is given the label if it’s suitable according to criteria prepared by professionals from fields such as medicine, psychology, art, architecture, chemistry, and education. The objective is to ensure that playtime has a positive impact on the body and mind.
What criteria does a toy have to meet?
Before a toy receives the Spiel gut label, its prototype must be sent to the organization behind the Spiel gut award. The final product cannot differ from the version approved by the organization, as it would result in a loss of prestige.
The criteria a toy must meet:
- suitable for the age group it’s meant for
- helping a child develop their imagination
- made of materials safe for children
- appropriate parameters for the age group
- shaping motor functions and speech skills in small children
- must be reusable.
Toys should help children develop instead of limiting their imagination or upsetting them. A broken and fragile toy will ruin their fun, negatively affecting them. Products unsuitable for a kid’s age will have a similar effect – causing sadness, anger or stress.
How to receive the Spiel gut award?
The process consists of several steps:
- The prototype toy must be sent to spiel gut e.V., where the experts will judge whether the toy fits the Spiel gut label criteria
- The model undergoes an 8-week practical testing period
- Once a model is accepted, it’s sent for the final review.
What is the cost of Spiel gut label?
If you wish to use the Spiel gut label, keep in mind the information below:
- a prototype won’t be returned
- if a toy is rejected, you don’t have to pay any additional fees
- you have to pay a fee to advertise your products with the Spiel gut label
- after being awarded with the label and paying 70 Euro, your product will be displayed on the official spiel gut e.V. site until it’s discontinued.
Is the Spiel gut label worth it?
Buyers prefer to purchase goods made of high-quality materials, especially if professionals recommend them. Your products will become more desirable in the eyes of whoever cares about the happiness and well-being of their children.