Children can have a lot of fun playing with their toys. However, it’s important to keep in mind that safety should always come first. Each year thousands of children are injured by toys.
Read on to learn what to look for when buying toys and how a few simple ideas for safe use can often prevent injuries.
Preventing Injuries from Toys:
Most injuries from toys are minor cuts, scrapes, and bruises. However, toys can cause serious injury or even death. This happens when toys are dangerous or used in the wrong way.
10 Toy Buying Tips:
Here are tips to help you choose safe and appropriate toys for your child.
- Read the label. Warning labels give important information about how to use a toy and what ages the toy is safe for. Be sure to show your child how to use the toy the right way.
- Think LARGE. Make sure all toys and parts are larger than your child’s mouth to prevent choking.
- Avoid toys that shoot objects into the air. They can cause serious eye injuries or choking.
- Avoid toys that are loud to prevent damage to your child’s hearing.
- Look for stuffed toys that are well made. Make sure all the parts are on tight and seams and edges are secure. It should also be machine washable. Take off any loose ribbons or strings to avoid strangulation. Avoid toys that have small bean-like pellets or stuffing that can cause choking or suffocation if swallowed.
- Buy plastic toys that are sturdy. Toys made from thin plastic may break easily.
- Avoid toys with toxic materials that could cause poisoning. Make sure the label says “nontoxic.”
