10 Safe Toy Buying Tips

West Coast PediatricsBlog, Holiday, Safety

The holidays are here, and shopping has already started. While shopping for toys, keep in mind that thousands of children are injured by toys each year. Here are ten safe toy buying tips to help you buy safe and appropriate toys for your child.

 

  1. Read the labels

Toys generally have warning labels with appropriate ages for that toy, small part choking hazard, and uses. Read all the labels to make sure the toy will be safe for your child.

 

  1. Think large

If it can fit in your child’s mouth, it’s too small. Think large as small toys present a choking hazard. As they get older and know better than to put things in their mouths, you can buy toys with smaller parts.

 

  1. Don’t shoot

Toys that shoot can cause eye or other injuries. Avoid them.

 

  1. Keep it quiet

Children have sensitive earing. Avoid buying loud toys to prevent hearing damage. You also will be happier yourself without having to hear loud, obnoxious noise.

 

  1. Stuffed well

If you are looking to buy stuffed toys, make sure they are manufactured well with secure seams. Avoid toys stuff with small pellets as they can cause choking should the seam break. Also, make sure the toy is machine washable and inspect it after you wash and dry it.

 

  1. Sturdy plastic

Make sure toys are made of sturdy plastic so they won’t easily break. Broken plastic can be sharp. Also, you don’t want a toy to fail if your child sits on it. A severe fall injury could result.

 

  1. Look for non-toxic

With many toys made outside the U.S., you need to make sure they are labeled non-toxic to avoid poisoning.

 

  1. No hobby or chemistry kits for young children

Hobby kits may contain paints, glues, or small pieces that could be dangerous for young children. Chemistry kits may contain hazardous chemicals that could cause chemical burns, fires, or explosions. Check the label for the appropriate ages.

 

  1. UL Approved

All-electric toys should be “UL Approved,” so check the label.

 

  1. Keep them high

It’s wise to keep hanging crib toys and crib mobiles out of your baby’s reach.  Keep this in mind as your baby becomes healthier and more active. When your baby begins to push up, you may need to increase the height or remove the toy altogether.

 

Your child will be excited about their new toys, and you will know they will be safe by following this safe toy buying tips. You can check out all unsafe or recalled toys on the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission website.

 

 Happy Holidays from West Coast Pediatrics!