Toys are essential for children’s development, but they can pose risks if they break or are misused. Even with safety guidelines and age-appropriate labels, no toy is completely safe.
Choosing safe toys involves evaluating their design and material to ensure they meet safety standards. To reduce the risk of injury, especially choking in kids under 3, parents must supervise play.
Share these safety tips with caregivers, friends, and family to ensure all toys and gifts are as safe as possible for your child.
For more comprehensive baby care tips and safety advice, visit Moon Mystical, where you’ll find valuable resources to support your child’s well-being.
1. Toy Safety Guidelines
Toys are age-graded for safety based on choking risks, required physical skills, and a child’s ability to use them. When choosing toys, match them to your child’s age and skills.
Opt for natural materials like cotton, wool, and uncoated wood, and avoid old wooden toys with chipped paint, which may contain lead. Ensure fabric toys are washable and choose phthalate-free, PVC-free, and BPA-free plastic toys.
Pick non-toxic art materials and Mylar balloons instead of latex, which is a choking hazard. Always buy safety gear, like helmets with bikes. Also, avoid toys that are too loud to protect your child’s hearing.
2. The Right Toys at the Right Ages
When buying toys, always read labels to ensure they are age-appropriate. Consider your child’s temperament and behavior, and avoid toys meant for older kids, as age levels are based on safety, not maturity.
Watch out for sharp edges, small parts, loud noises, and toys with cords or strings, which can pose risks like choking or strangulation. Avoid toys that shoot objects or have magnets, and only buy electric toys labeled “UL Approved.”
Keep battery compartments secure, and dispose of batteries safely. Supervise your child during play to ensure their safety, especially with toys that have potential hazards.
3. Keeping Toys Safe at Home
After buying safe toys, ensure kids know how to use them by supervising their play. This helps them learn to play safely.
Parents should teach kids to put toys away, regularly check for damage like splinters, rust, or broken parts, and repair or discard unsafe toys. Store outdoor toys indoors and keep all toys clean using manufacturer guidelines.
Use toy chests with safety features or opt for open baskets. Always discard packaging immediately, read toy instructions, and explain them to your child. Regularly check toys with batteries or magnets to ensure they’re secure and safe.