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Out with the Old
Ways to Recycle Toys
By Crystal Patriarche
In particular, many hospitals have specific needs and suggestions for their children's wards. You can call the hospital or check out their Web sites for rules and wish lists for toy donations.
The Connecticut Children's Medical Center in Hartford, Conn., requests that you donate only new toys and those that are safe and appropriate for hospitalized infants, children or teenagers. This is still a good "recycling" opportunity if your child receives a duplicate gift. Other organizations such as the Salvation Army, shelters or community centers accept gently-used items.
"We trade with other families for a couple of months or so – it's a great idea if you have someone to swap with," says Ivy Pressendo, a Phoenix, Ariz., mother. "When we get them back, we have a renewed interest in the ones we gave away for a while."
"One cool recycling thing we do is use her baby clothes that she wore for her baby dolls," says Cox of her daughter. "Things like the onesies, burp cloths and receiving blankets or things you can't use any more make good doll accessories."
Cox says that she saves first-time toys or favorite toys for when her daughter is older and has children of her own. "We just put them in big plastic bins with lids and throw them in the basement so she will have those special items," she says.
As the toys keep accumulating in your household – exponentially it seems – keep the toy box or play room under control by sorting through them and picking a recycling option or two that works best for your family.
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Re: Out With the Old by Project Night Night on 11/14/2008 11:58PM
If you're looking for a way to recycle your stuffed animals or blankets try checking out Project Night Night! The Project Night Night organization basically provides a package, free of charge, to homeless children from birth to preteen who need our childhood essentials to feel secure, cozy, ready to learn and significant. Each Night Night Package contains a new security blanket, a children's book, and a stuffed animal -- all nestled inside a new canvas tote bag. For more information on donating or getting involved check out their Web site at www.projectnightnight.org!