One of the biggest concerns for parents when it comes to purchasing toys for toddlers is determining if the toy is going to be safe for them to play with. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission determined that in one 12 month period 150,000 children suffered injuries serious enough to require a trip to the emergency room. It is the responsibility of parents and caregivers to inspect their toddler toys, both new and old, for possible safety hazards. Parents should make it a habit to read the labels on their children’s toys. Look for statements such as “not recommended for children under three” or “ non-toxic “ just to mention a few. These warnings are there to make you aware of the dangers if these guidelines are not followed.
Toys made for toddlers should be of good design and sturdy construction. There should not be sharp edges, small parts or sharp points. Buy toys that will keep your toddlers interest and suit their abilities. Avoid toys that have buttons or other small garnishments as they can fall off or your toddler may remove them and they then become a swallowing hazard. Never buy toys that shoot or fly around because your child may use them improperly resulting in possible eye injuries or other dangers. Ensure that any electric toy you buy for your small one has the proper UL rating on the packaging or the toy itself. Electric toys when not constructed properly or wired correctly can shock or burn your toddler. Remember that toys for older children can be dangerous for younger ones.
Almost any toddler toy can be dangerous if it is used inappropriately, however, there are some that are designed incorrectly and are just plain dangerous to little children. Toy manufacturers, retailers and their distributors are legally responsible for ensuring they are not selling potentially hazardous toddler toys. Quality control experts and safety inspectors are also responsible for finding any issues while the toys are still in the factories and warehouses. Parents and caregivers should note that while there are laws in place, as well as safety guidelines, it is ultimately up to them to protect their toddlers from the dangers of improper toys. Carefully selecting the right toys for your small child and properly supervising them, will allow your child to play safely with their toys while still enjoying themselves.
