As the holidays approach, many of us are planning gifts for our loved ones. If you have a toddler on your gift list, you need to make sure the toys you buy are safe and appropriate for the child's age.
Check Age And Skill Level
Check the packaging to make sure the toy you are buying is appropriate for your child's age and ability. A game that is meant for a 5-year-old can be mystifying for a 3-year-old. Also, look at the instructions. If you can't comprehend them, then a child probably won't be able to figure out how the toy works either.
Check Safety
Safety is another aspect you should always check. Small parts can be dangerous. Parts small enough to fit easily into a toddler's mouth can be a choking hazard. This may seem to be an unlikely problem when you're looking at that ideal toy, but remember, small children and infants automatically put items in their mouths.
Check Construction
Stuffed animals are ideal for small children, but make sure they are safe for your tot by looking at the way the toy is constructed. Are the eyes, nose, and other small features fastened on tightly? If not tightly secured, these items can come off when a child inevitably puts it in their mouth.
Check For Sharp Edges
Toys with a sharp edge can be a potential safety hazard for a toddler. A child walking or running with such a toy can fall and be injured by it. Again, tots like to put things in their mouths, so a sharp-edged toy could cut their lips, gums or tongues.
Any Electric Or Heating Involved?
Only children over 8 years old should receive electric toys with heating elements. Don't be tempted to buy these for a younger child just because they're a bargain and would be fun to play with. When children are playing unsupervised, a toy with an electrical heating element can be hazardous.
Has The Toy Been Recalled?
Before setting out on going shopping, find out what toys have been recalled. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission can tell you if a toy has been recalled that could pose a serious safety threat to your tot. You can call toll-free (800) 638-2772. You might be surprised to find out that some of the leading toy makers have recalled toys. A good idea would be while you're at it to check older toys your child already has to be sure they're not on the recall list. The CPSC website will tell you what to do if a toy you have is on the recall list.
Remove Dangerous Packaging Immediately
Watch for those twist-ties that keep toys secure in their packages. They keep the toy looking good on the shelf, but they become a hazard when the toy is removed from the package. Even if your toddler's toys don't have these, check older sibling's toys for them. They need to be properly removed to avoid any danger to a younger child. On Christmas morning, you can eliminate a suffocation hazard to your tot by immediately throwing away all plastic wrappings from the toys.
Do Your Research
Toys and games that capture the imagination are hard to resist when you have a special toddler in mind. You can help keep the holidays happy and safe for your child by doing your research before you buy.
About the Author
For more information, see Safe Toys. See more info at Safety Toys. Ron King is a web developer; visit his website Writers WebSite.
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