Picking Out The Safest Toddler Toy
Your Toddler Toy Checklist
Toddlers are SOOO curious! Their minds are also going, and so are they. They love to explore and it is no wonder why there are over 200,000 toy-related injuries that are treated in American emergency rooms each year. The mouth is the primary sensory organ for babies until about the age of 8 months. Their mouth allows them to taste, feel textures, and differentiate what things to eat from what things not to eat. It is how babies learn. And even until they are well into their twos, toddlers still put things into their mouths. My son, who is three, still puts things in his mouth. It's a toddler's way of finding out what their toys can do, rather than what they taste or feel like. Unfortunately, this can lead to a risk of choking. Therefore, I thought it would be a good idea to put information about picking out a safe toddler toy for your little one. So the next time you buy a toddler toy, you might consider the following: Is the toy age-appropriate? Even if your little one is mentally advanced, it is still best to give him/her an age-appropriate toy. Age levels for toys are determined by safety factors, not by intelligence or maturity.Is this toy small? If you are not sure, you can use a toilet paper roll to help you determine. If the toy fits inside of the roll, it is not appropriate for children under the age of 3.Is the toy sturdy? Only buy toys that are sturdy enough to withstand pulling and twisting. Make sure it is well made and the toy’s eyes, nose, buttons, and other parts are securely attached and can't break off.Does the toy have a string longer than 6 inches? This also includes ribbons, ropes and cords. Any string longer than 6 inches can be a strangulation risk.Are your art supplies non-toxic? Remember that little ones explore with their mouths, especially crayons. Therefore, look for the ASTM D-4236 designation on the package. This means the item has been reviewed by an ASTM toxicologist and it is safe for your child to use.Are there sharp parts, edges, or thin parts? These parts could cut your little one's hand and/or fingers.Is the toy too loud? Loud noises can damage your child's hearing.If it is a throwing toy, does it have darts and/or projectiles? I think it is best to avoid these toys if you have a child in your house that is under 6 years old.Does the toy contain magnets? Serious injury can happen if your child ingests 2 or more magnets.Is the stuffed animal filled with beans or other small objects? If so, don't let your little one play with it. Your child could choke on the little pieces if the stuffed animal gets a rip or hole.Does the toy have hinges that could pinch a child's fingers or hair?Could any part of the toy be bitten off and swallowed? Little ones 3 years old and under, love putting things in their mouth, especially toys. So it is a good idea to make sure a piece will not come off and be a choking hazard.
Toy Safety At Home
Now that you have picked out a safe toddler toy, it is time for your little one to have fun playing with it at home. However, don't forget that toy safety does not stop once you have purchased a "safe toy". Remember: injuries can be prevented most of the time with the use of safe toys AND proper supervision.Here are some more tips to keep your little one safe while he/she is playing with their toddler toy at home. Teach your child to put away their toys after he/she is done playing with them. This prevents someone from falling over a toy.Check toys regularly to make sure there are no broken or loose pieces that a little one can choke on.Periodically wash your child's toys. Never let your little one play with balloons. It is best to avoid them because of the choking risk, but if you are going to use them, it is best to use Mylar balloons. These are the big silver ones and they do not pop as easily. And if they do pop, they only pop in one piece. Latex balloons on the other hand, can pop in pieces. A little one can choke on a piece if he/she swallows it. Make sure your little one uses a helmet and knee and elbow pads when riding a bike, skates, or skateboard.Supervise your child's play to make sure they are not playing with unsafe toys.Have some fun with your little one by playing with them. This gives you the opportunity to teach play safety while having fun and enjoying time together.When your little one gets a new toy, make sure to immediately throw away the wrapping and fasteners that the toy came in.Throw away damaged toys, or repair them right away.Never leave toys outside. Exposure to the elements can deteriorate a toy. This can damage the toy and make it unsafe.Don't forget to check if there are
recalls on your little one's toys.
Toys and games are meant to be fun and can also be used to teach your child while he/she is playing. However, for a child to get the most out of a toy, it must be safe.
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