When choosing a toy for your child, keep these tips in mind:
- Select toys to suit the age, abilities, skills, and interest level of the intended child. Toys too advanced may pose safety hazards to younger children.
- For infants, toddlers, and all children who still mouth objects, avoid toys with small parts, which could pose a fatal choking hazard.
- Look for sturdy construction on plush toys, such as tightly secured eyes, noses, and other potential small parts.
- Avoid toys that have sharp edges and points, especially for children under age 8.
- Do not purchase electric toys with heating elements for children under age 8.
- Be a label reader. Look for labels that give age and safety recommendations and use that information as a guide.
- Check instructions for clarity. They should be clear to you, and when appropriate, to the child.
- Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys before they become deadly playthings. Plastic wrappings can cause suffocation.
You can also find lists of recalled toys and children's products at the U.S. Consumer Product Safet Commission's Web site, www.cpsc.gov, or by calling toll-free (800) 638-2772.
Source: U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission |
