How to Choose Safe Toys for Your Kids

 

We want to give the children in our lives toys that bring joy, spark creativity, and foster learning. But amidst the sea of options, ensuring a toy is safe is just as important as finding one that’s fun. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you select toys that are safe and age-appropriate for your little ones. 

1. Check the Age Recommendations

Every toy comes with an age guideline printed on the packaging. This is not just about skill level or interest; it’s also a safety measure. These guidelines factor in potential hazards like small parts or sharp edges that may not be suitable for certain age groups. For example:

- For children under 3 years old, avoid toys with small parts that can pose a choking risk.  

- Always match the toy to your child’s current developmental stage for the best experience.

2. Look for Non-Toxic Materials

Young children, especially babies and toddlers, explore the world by putting objects in their mouths. To ensure their safety:

- Select toys labeled as non-toxic. 

- Look for safety certifications like ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) or CE marking in Europe, which indicate the toy meets high safety standards.  

3. Be Aware of Choking Hazards

Choking is one of the most common toy-related risks. To avoid this: 

- Stay away from toys with small components, detachable parts, or tiny beads for children under 3. 

- Use a “choke tube” or a toilet paper roll as a test. If the toy or part can fit inside, it’s too small for young children.  

4. Choose Sturdy and Well-Made Toys

Durability matters! Well-constructed toys reduce the risk of sharp edges or small parts breaking off. 

- Check seams on stuffed animals to ensure they won’t easily tear. 

- Avoid toys made with brittle plastic or materials that can splinter.  

5. Avoid Strangulation and Entanglement Risks

Toys with strings, cords, or ribbons longer than 12 inches can be hazardous for younger kids. 

- For babies and toddlers, avoid pull toys with long strings. 

- Supervise older children when playing with items like jump ropes or toys with cords.  

6. Safeguard Against Battery Hazards 

Electronic toys can be educational and entertaining, but they require extra scrutiny: 

- Ensure the battery compartments are childproof, typically secured with screws.

- Be cautious of toys with button batteries, as these can cause serious harm if swallowed.  

7. Avoid Sharp Edges and Points

Plastic, metal, or wooden toys should have smooth, rounded edges. 

- Steer clear of toys with exposed sharp metal or flimsy plastic that could break and create sharp points. 

- Double-check hand-me-down toys for wear that may make them unsafe.

8. Test the Noise Level 

While noisy toys can be exciting, excessively loud sounds can damage your child’s hearing. 

- Before purchasing, test the volume. If it feels too loud to you, it’s likely too loud for them. 

- Keep the noise levels around your child below 60 decibels. For reference, a quiet chat at home is roughly 50 dB, highway traffic is about 70 dB, workplaces can reach 80-85 dB, and a jet taking off is around 100 dB.

- Certain toys, like talking dolls or siren-equipped cars, might be too loud for children, especially if held close to their ears. These toys can produce sounds ranging from 80 to 120 dB. Here's a link to at home measuring devices on Amazon.

- This information is for general knowledge and guidance only. For specific concerns about your child's hearing health, consult with a pediatrician or audiologist.

9. Stay Informed About Recalls

Even with your best efforts, some toys may have hidden dangers. 

- Regularly check resources like the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) for updates on toy recalls.

Sign up for email alerts: Subscribe to email alerts from the CPSC to receive notifications of new recalls directly to your inbox.

This is the primary source for all CPSC recalls, including those related to children's products. You can usually find specific recall information, including:

Product descriptions: Detailed information about the recalled product, including brand name, model number, and any identifying features.

Hazards: The specific safety hazards associated with the product, such as choking hazards, fire hazards, or lead poisoning.

Remedy: Instructions on how to stop using the product and what action to take, such as returning it for a refund or repair.

 - Safe Kids Worldwide is a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing childhood injuries. They often provide information and resources on product recalls that may affect children.

 - Keep product information handy: Keep product manuals and packaging in a safe place for easy reference in case of a recall.

10. Supervise Playtime and Inspect Toys Regularly 

Even the safest toys need oversight to prevent accidents. 

- Watch your children while they play, especially with new toys. 

- Regularly inspect toys for wear and tear. Discard damaged toys immediately to avoid potential injuries. 

*** Bonus Tips***

- Rotate Toys: Keep playtime fresh by rotating toys regularly. It also helps prevent clutter and overstimulation. 

 - Involve Kids: Teach your children how to play with toys appropriately. For example, demonstrate how to use building sets safely. 

 - Foster Sharing: Encourage your kids to share toys safely, especially with younger siblings who may not yet understand safety rules.  

Final Thoughts 

Choosing safe toys is about more than avoiding risks—it’s about creating an environment where your child can explore, learn, and grow with peace of mind. By following these tips, you can ensure your child’s playtime is both joyful and secure. 

 

🤔What’s your favorite tip for selecting safe toys? Share in the comments below! 👇