4 Helpful Tips for Buying Safe Toys for Your Children
When it comes to choosing toys for your children, the “fun factor” is not the only aspect that you need to look for. Even if it seems like just a harmless fox stuffed animal, you have to make sure that they are safe to use and won’t put kids in danger. If you are thinking “they’re just toys,” you should know that you can’t be too careful even if they’re “just toys.” After all, there were roughly 226,100 toy-related injuries that were treated in emergency departments in the U.S. back in 2018 – that number is too large to ignore!
As a parent or guardian, it is your responsibility to ensure that you are getting your children safe toys that won’t harm them in any way. Here are four tips that can help you do this:
1. Always Check the Labels
When you’re shopping, be it in-person or online, make it a point to carefully read the labels on the toy boxes. There should be warnings if it’s a choking hazard or flammable. You must also take note of the age recommendation and make sure you follow that. Additionally, check the box for the “non-toxic” label, and if it’s an electronic toy, you should see “UL Approved” printed on it.
It is also wise to check if the toy is on the recalls list of the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s recalls list.
2. Avoid Toys With Any Choking Hazards
Depending on how old your child is, keep in mind that small parts that could be choking hazards must be removed. The rule of thumb is if the component of the toy or the toy itself can fit inside a toilet paper roll, a child can choke on it.
If the doll or bunny stuffed animal has eyes that are glued on the toy, you might want to secure that by sewing it on, or better yet, only buy those with sewn parts. If you have older kids who play with building blocks or any other toy with small pieces, make sure that they are not reached by their younger siblings who may not be old enough for those toys.
3. Buy Safe Rides and Protective Gear
Remember that kids love ride-on toys, and riding scooters or bikes is like a rite of passage that your child shouldn’t miss. Yet, you should still ensure their safety by inspecting all the ride’s parts and mechanisms to check if they’re secure before you buy them.
Also, just to be on the safe side, you must buy your child a helmet, as well as some protective pads, especially if they’re below the age of 8. Likewise, close supervision is necessary!
4. Take Extra Precaution When Buying Crib Toys and Accessories
You might be excited to get your child the softest, fluffiest crochet blankets or baby lovey toy that you can find. While that’s perfectly fine, you must ensure that you find ones that are safe for a baby. When you put them in the crib, make sure that they are under supervision. Never leave your child alone with anything that can put them at risk of suffocation or strangulation!
Conclusion
Toys are a part of every kid’s life, and they bring them so much happiness. However, they should never be the cause of any unpleasant incidents like accidents and other injuries. The best way to avoid them is to take the tips above seriously and be careful with the toys you buy and bring into your home. Whether it’s a baby activity gym or a complex toy robot, you should apply the same precautions to ensure your child’s safety no matter what age they may be!
OB Designs offers toys that are fun and safe for your younger children. We have everything from a baby gym to a lion plush that your baby will enjoy. Check out our selection of adorable toys today!