Safe Toys Buying Guide
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We all want to buy safe toys for our children, but despite very strict toy safety regulations, some toys are still unsafe. That is why you should become familiar with the Consumer Product Safety Commission regulations and be aware of any potential hazards when buying toys for any child.
Currently the cpsc toy safety regulations have been very successful. Accidents that involve toys are actually rare and when accidents do involve toys it is most often caused by a defect in the toy itself. Most toy accidents usually occur when people trip over them or use them in a way they are not meant to be used.
Toy recalls happen when defective or dangerous toys have made it onto the market but you should always look carefully at the toy and the toy labels when buying any toys.
Safety Toy Labels
Make sure you check that the toy you are buying has the appropriate safety toy labels. In the United States the Consumer Product Safety Commission, or CPSC, mark that the toy meets the minimum required toy safety standards.
These important safety labels also state the appropriate age of the child that the toy is suited for and is an essential part of toy safety. Any toy that is not suitable for children under 36 months must have a toy label stating so.
This age label is a guide as to what age group will benefit the most from the toy. Here is a short safe toys buying guide of what kinds of toys are best for different age groups:
Under Three Years Old
The choking hazard is by far the biggest threat that toys pose to children under three years . Babies and toddlers love to put almost anything in their mouths. So make sure you are buying safe toys for babies. Avoid very small toys or any toys with little parts that could come off. In addition, be careful with inflatable toys and balloons and avoid toys with any sharp edges.
Three To Five Years Old
Children really start to develop more at this age and are able to handle more sophisticated toys. But don’t let your guard down, because certain toys could still pose a risk. Avoid any toy that is made with thin plastic that could break and be stepped on or even swallowed.
Six To Twelve Years Old
Children at this age are usually able to safely play with almost any toy. Just be sure to read the instructions for any hazard warnings or needed safety equipment. A Skateboard or a bicycle may be an example where you also need to purchase protective equipment.
But what do you do if you have children of different ages? Safe toys for five year olds won’t be safe toys for babies. So teach your older children to store their toys out of the reach of younger children.
Make a separate toy box for each child and be aware that they don’t trade any toys. Age labels on toys are a good way to help you to keep the toys organized by age.
If you feel that a toy might be dangerous, immediately take the toy out of the reach of all children. You should then report the toy to the cpsc toy safety to make sure they know about it. You need to keep the toy for their examination and you try to provide accurate details of when and where you bought the toy.
Toy safety labels offer a very good defense against dangerous toys but your own common sense can go a long way when purchasing any toy. Examine the toy carefully and make sure that it is well constructed and doesn’t have any sharp edges or corners.
Become aware of these toy safety tips each time you go toy shopping and they can be a good guide for buying fun and safe toys for your children.
