German consumer groups urge diverse, low‑sugar items for school cones

Consumer advice from the Verbraucherzentrale Sachsen and the ProDente initiative recommends that German parents fill first‑grade school cones (Schultüten) with items beyond sweets. Suggested additions include a colourful lunch box, a reusable water bottle, a colouring book, a jump rope, a plush toy, a ball, a wristwatch, a key‑ring, stickers, and other small toys or stationery.

The advice also urges parents to coordinate gifts with grandparents to avoid duplicates, to portion sweets and consider sugar‑free alternatives marked with the “Zahnmännchen” seal, and to involve children in sharing the treats. The goal is to extend the excitement of the first school day while protecting children’s teeth and encouraging sustainable, varied presents.