Hey there, amazing parents and caregivers!
Today, I want to talk about something really important: picking safe toys for our little ones.
Toys play a huge role in every child’s growth, bringing both fun and learning. But it’s super important to make sure those toys are safe.
As a mom, I totally understand how overwhelming it can be to find toys that are both enjoyable and safe.
So, let’s jump into some tips and advice to help you feel confident when making those buying decisions!
Why Toy Safety Matters
Every year, thousands of kids end up in emergency rooms because of toy-related injuries.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) does a great job regulating toys to keep our kids safe, but we, as parents, need to stay alert, too.
By picking safe toys, we can help prevent dangers like choking or swallowing harmful parts and other injuries.
Key Tips for Selecting Safe Toys
- Always Check Labels: Labels are super important because they give you key information about safety and whether the toy is suitable for your child’s age. Look for labels like ASTM D-4236, which means the toy meets current safety standards. Reading labels helps make sure the toy has been tested and is safe for your child’s age group.
- Watch for Choking Hazards: Make sure toys are big enough that they can’t fit in a young child’s mouth. This is especially important for babies and toddlers who love to explore with their mouths. A simple test is to see if the toy or any of its parts can fit inside a toilet paper roll. If it does, it’s too small for little ones.
- Skip Toys with Small Parts: Toys with small pieces are a definite no-go for kids ages 3 and under. These tiny parts can easily be choking hazards, so pay close attention to toys with detachable parts, buttons, or small accessories.
- Choose Non-Toxic Materials: If a toy is painted, it should use non-toxic paint. Be cautious with older toys or hand-me-downs, as they might not meet today’s safety standards. Non-toxic materials are crucial to ensure that if your child puts the toy in their mouth, they won’t swallow harmful chemicals.
- Be Careful with Magnets: Magnets can cause serious injuries if swallowed. Avoid toys with small or strong magnets, especially those that have more than one. If swallowed, magnets can attract each other through the intestines and cause serious harm.
- Think About Your Child’s Personality: Choose toys that fit your child’s age and interests. This not only keeps them safe but also helps them learn and play properly. For example, if your child loves to explore with their hands, they might enjoy larger, tactile toys more than small, complicated ones.
- Look for Sharp Edges and Loose Parts: Always check toys for sharp edges or loose parts that could hurt your child. Even a toy that looks safe can be dangerous if it’s worn out or broken.
- Stay Updated on Recalls: Keep an eye on toy recalls. Websites like the CPSC share information about recalled toys that could be dangerous. Signing up for recall alerts can help you stay informed about the latest safety concerns.
Types of Safe Toys for Different Ages
Infants (0-12 months)
Crib Toys and Gyms: Make sure these toys are securely attached and have no small parts. Once your baby can push up on their hands and knees, take crib toys out of reach to avoid any strangulation risks.
Squeaky Toys and Stuffed Animals: These should be well-made and free of loose parts. Stuffed toys should have strong seams and not contain small parts that could be a choking hazard.
Push-up Toys: These are perfect for babies who are starting to push up on their hands and knees. They help develop motor skills while keeping safety in mind.
Toddlers (1-3 years)
Riding Toys: Check that these toys are stable and have no sharp edges. Make sure they’re suitable for your child’s size and coordination.
Stacking and Building Toys: Choose larger toys that won’t fit in your child’s mouth to avoid choking hazards. Blocks and other building toys should be big enough to play safely.
Bath Toys: Look out for mold and make sure they’re easy to clean. Bath toys should be watertight to prevent mold and mildew from growing.
Preschoolers (3-5 years)
Arts and Crafts: Look for labels like ASTM D-4236 to ensure the materials are non-toxic. Craft supplies should be free of small parts and harmful substances.
Interactive Toys: For electronic toys, make sure they are safely battery-operated and have secure battery compartments. Keep batteries out of reach to prevent choking or ingestion.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Keeping toys clean is a simple way to stop germs from spreading. Here are some easy tips to help you out:
- Mild Dishwashing Detergent: Grab a spray bottle and fill it with mild dish soap to clean plastic toys. This method is gentle enough for the toys while effectively getting rid of dirt and germs.
- Wash Stuffed Toys: Most stuffed animals can go in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. Just check the label for washing instructions to make sure you don’t accidentally ruin the toy.
- Inspect Toys Regularly: Take a moment to check for any wear and tear, like loose parts or sharp edges. Regularly inspecting toys can help you spot potential hazards before they become serious issues..
Also Read: What plastic toys are safe for newborns?
Personal Experience and Recommendations
When my little one turned one, I bought some safe toys from a brand I trusted. I always made it a point to read the labels to ensure they met safety standards.
One day, I noticed a loose part on a toy car and quickly took it off to avoid any accidents. This experience really taught me how important it is to check toys regularly.
Why Wooden Toys?
We absolutely love wooden toys in our house! They’re sturdy, non-toxic, and often made with care by hand. Brands like Bumbu Toys create beautifully crafted wooden toys that inspire imaginative play while keeping safety in mind.
Plus, they’re super easy to clean—just use a mild detergent and a cloth! Wooden toys are also great for the environment and can last for generations. They don’t have the harmful chemicals that some plastic toys do, and they often look nicer, too.
Avoiding Common Toy Hazards
Button Batteries and Lithium Coin Batteries
These tiny batteries can be very dangerous if swallowed, causing serious injuries or even death. Always check that battery-operated toys have secure compartments that kids can’t easily open.
Small Parts
Be extra careful with toys that have small parts, like beads, buttons, or tiny figures. These can be choking hazards for younger kids.
Sharp Edges and Points
Toys with sharp edges or points can cause cuts and bruises. Always take a moment to check for any signs of wear and tear that could create dangerous edges.
Toxic Chemicals
Stay away from toys made with toxic materials, including some plastics and paints. Look for toys labeled as non-toxic and check for safety certifications to ensure they’re safe for your child.
Strings and Ribbons
Strings and ribbons longer than 12 inches can be a strangulation risk for young children. Avoid toys with long strings, and remove any ribbons from stuffed animals or other toys.
What to Do If a Toy Is Recalled
- Stop Using the Toy Right Away: Take the toy away from your child to keep them safe.
- Follow Recall Instructions: Look at the recall notice for details on how to return or get rid of the toy. Sometimes, you can return it for a refund or a replacement.
- Spread the Word: Let other parents and caregivers know about the recall so they can keep their kids safe, too!