Keeping Toy Safety in Mind
Here are some tips that can help keep children safer:
When buying toys, read labels. Heed the age recommendations. Look for quality construction. Make sure fabric items are flame retardant or resistant. Stuffed toys and dolls should be washable or made of hygienic materials.
As toys are used, watch for breakage or other problems. Have your older children help keep inappropriate toys out of younger siblings’ hands.
Under Age 3
Avoid toys with small parts that can be swallowed. Kids this age explore by pulling and twisting things. What’s in their hands often goes in their mouths!
Ages 3 to 5
Avoid toys made of thin brittle plastic. They can break into small pieces with sharp edges.
When shopping for art materials, look for the designation “ASTM D-4236.” This shows the product has been reviewed and labeled with appropriate safety information.
Ages 6 to 12
When buying a bike, buy a helmet, too. Make sure the child wears it.
If you buy a toy gun, make sure the barrel or the whole gun is brightly colored so it’s not mistaken for a real gun.
ยป The Consumer Product Safety Commission has more on toy safety.