Tips for Purchasing Safe Toys
When it comes to children and their toys, prioritizing safety is paramount. Every year, numerous children sustain injuries while playing with toys. This article offers guidance on what to consider when buying toys and emphasizes the significance of safe usage practices. Furthermore, it highlights specific hazards such as button batteries, magnets, and small objects that children might be inclined to put in their mouths, noses, or ears.
Preventing Toy-Related Injuries: While most toy injuries are minor, there are instances where toys can cause severe harm or even fatalities. This typically occurs when toys are either inherently dangerous or used incorrectly.
10 Tips for Buying Safe Toys: To ensure the safety and appropriateness of toys for your child, consider the following guidelines:
Read the label: Pay attention to warning labels that provide instructions for proper toy usage and indicate the appropriate age range.
Think LARGE: Choose toys and parts that are larger than your child's mouth to avoid choking hazards. Lego designed the DUPLO series that only include large lego pieces that children under the age of 3 can play with. Most sets will also include the recommended age on the packaging.
Avoid shooting toys: Steer clear of toys that shoot objects into the air, as they can cause eye injuries or choking. Rather choose toys that makes sound and lights when you shoot it.
Mind the noise level: Opt for toys that aren't excessively loud to protect your child's hearing.
Select stuffed toys: Check for securely attached parts, tight seams, and edges. Ensure they are machine washable and remove any loose ribbons or strings to prevent strangulation. Avoid toys with small pellets or stuffing that pose a choking or suffocation risk if swallowed.
Opt for sturdy plastic toys: Choose toys made of robust plastic to prevent easy breakage and the formation of sharp pieces.
Avoid toxic materials: Look for toys labeled as "nontoxic" to avoid potential poisoning hazards.
Exercise caution with hobby kits and chemistry sets: These items are not suitable for children under 12 as they can lead to fires, explosions, and exposure to dangerous chemicals. Educate older children on safe handling practices AND be present when they try it out.
Be cautious with crib toys: Keep soft objects, loose bedding, and any items that could increase the risk of suffocation or entrapment out of the crib. Mobiles and crib gyms should be removed when the baby starts pushing up on their hands and knees or reaches five months old, as they can pose a strangulation hazard.
Awareness of Small Batteries and Magnets: Take extra care when purchasing toys with small batteries (button or lithium coin) or high-powered magnets. If these components become loose, young children may be tempted to ingest them, leading to severe injuries.
Selecting Age-Appropriate Toys: Age recommendations on toys play a crucial role in determining their safety, considering factors such as choking hazards and a child's developmental stage and understanding.
Conclusion: By following these tips and staying informed you can make informed decisions to provide your child with safe and enjoyable play experiences. Remember, safeguarding children while they play is essential for their well-being.
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