The materials used in toys are of critical importance for the safety of children. Toys are usually made of plastic, fabric, foam and other materials, and some of these materials are not inherently flame resistant. For this reason, flame retardants are added to some toys. Flame retardants aim to reduce the risk of fire by slowing or stopping the ignition of the material.

However, there are some concerns about the use of flame retardant chemicals:

1. **Health Effects**: Some flame retardants may cause harm to human health, particularly through prolonged exposure. For example, some polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) and tetrabrombisphenol A may have endocrine disrupting properties.

2. **Environmental Impacts**: When flame retardants are released into the environment, they can leach into waterways and damage ecosystems.

3. **Legal Restrictions**: In some countries and regions, the addition of flame-retardant chemicals is restricted or prohibited, especially in children's toys and baby products.

Some alternative flame retardant solutions are:

1. **Natural Flame Retardants**: Wool, for example, is naturally flame resistant and can be used as an alternative to synthetic flame retardants in some toys.

2. **Innovative Chemicals**: Research is underway to develop new flame retardant chemicals that are less toxic and more environmentally friendly.

3. **Design Approaches**: The design and structure of toys can be optimized to make it difficult for the material to catch fire.

As a result, toy manufacturers must select the best materials and methods for children's safety, taking into account the potential risks and benefits of flame retardants. It is important for parents to be aware of this when choosing toys and to request information from manufacturers or sellers if necessary.