Toys are a very important part of every child's development. But every year, some children are treated in emergency rooms for toy-related injuries. Asphyxiation is a major hazard, a risk for children 3 years and younger because they tend to put objects in their mouths.
Manufacturers follow the guidelines and label most toys for specific age groups. But the most important thing a parent can do, especially when it comes to the youngest children, is to control the game .
Some general guidelines to keep in mind when shopping for toys:
fabric toys must be labeled as fire resistant
soft toys should be washed
painted toys should use lead-free paint
art materials must be non-toxic
Stay away from old toys, even from the hands of friends and family. They may not comply with applicable safety standards. If you decide to take it, check all the details for strength properly.
Make sure the toy is not too loud for your child. Some rattles, squeaky toys, musical or electronic toys can be as loud as a car horn - even louder if a child holds the toy directly to their ears - this can damage hearing.
The right toys at the right age
Always read labels to make sure the toy is suitable for a specific age.
Be sure to consider your child's temperament, habits and behavior when purchasing a new toy. Even a toddler who appears to be advanced compared to other children of the same age should not use toys intended for older children. Age levels for toys are determined by safety factors, not intelligence or maturity .
Storing toys at home
After you have bought toys, it is also important to make sure that the children know how to use them. The best way to do this is to supervise the children as they play and to show the children how to play safely and in a fun way.
Parents should:
teach children to put away toys
regularly check toys for damage (throw away broken toys or have them repaired right now)
check that wooden toys are not chipped
Remember, that:
bicycles and metal toys must not be rusty
soft toys should be well, tightly sewn
And be sure to keep your toys clean . Some plastic toys are dishwasher safe, but read the manufacturer's directions first. Another option is to mix antibacterial soap or mild dishwashing detergent with hot water in a spray bottle and use it to clean the toys, then rinse them.
If you have any doubts about the safety of a toy, do not let your child play with it, there should not be such toys in the house.
