What should a parent know about child toy safety?

Answer

Here are some child toy safety tips:

• Before shopping for toys, consider the child's age, interests and abilities. Be selective in your purchases.

• When shopping, read labels. Look for age ranges and safety warnings.

• Be especially careful when choosing toys for children under three. Select toys that are free of small pieces (or pieces that separate or can be broken off), are lightweight, have no sharp edges or points and are non-toxic.

• At home, carefully read instructions for assembly and use. Keep product literature in case of future questions and complete warranty cards.

• Always remove and discard all packaging from a toy before giving it to a baby or small child.

• Consider the home environment in which a child will play with a toy and younger children who may be there. A toy intended for an older child may be dangerous in the hands of a younger one.

• Supervise children when they play and set good examples of safe play.

• Remind caregivers, including grandparents, of play-related safety concerns.

• Choose a safe storage place for toys. If a storage chest is used, be sure it has a removable lid or a spring-loaded support that allows the lid to remain securely open. Also, check for smooth, finished edges, air holes to prevent suffocation and hinge-line clearances to prevent pinched fingers. Other good options for storing and organizing toys are large, stackable plastic bins, smooth-edged baskets, or sturdy, open shelves.

• Properly maintain toys. Even the most well-made toys can suffer minor damage in play. Check toys regularly for cracks, tears, sharp edges, small parts, loose buttons, dirt, etc. Remind children to let you know when toys need repair. Often, a spot of glue, a tightened bolt or a bit of tape will prevent further damage and a possible injury.

• Never allow toys to remain outdoors overnight. Rain, snow and dew cause rust damage that increases the risk of injuries. A toy damaged beyond repair should be discarded in an inaccessible manner or replaced promptly.

First answer by FCIC. Last edit by Chris. Contributor trust: 2459 [recommend contributor]. Question popularity: 74 [recommend question]