Tag Archives: age appropriate

CHOOSING TOYS FOR BABY: FOUR SAFETY PRECAUTIONS YOU NEED TO FOLLOW (GUEST POST)

Selecting toys for your baby or toddler can be a difficult task. It is common to select a toy on impulse because it looks cute or seems to be age appropriate. However, when you are selecting toys for children this small, there are several things that you should take into consideration to protect your child, ensure their fun, and save you money.

1. Small Parts. As you already know, babies and toddlers have the tendency to stick everything in their mouth. It does not matter what the object is, or how dirty it is, or even if you tell them no, they still stick it in their mouths. Toys with small parts, such as button eyes on stuffed animals, can be very dangerous. If they stick it in their mouths and it comes off the product, there is a risk of choking. Additionally, small parts also fit into nostrils, ears, and have the tendency to be jammed into other household items.

2. Quality of Manufacture. While going to the dollar store can be a big adventure for a small child, it is also filled with dangerous toys. Many of these imported toys are poorly constructed and break easy; leaving sharp edges or small parts that can present a problem. These toys also have a tendency to contain harmful chemicals. Some overseas manufacturers do not adhere to the same health and safety regulations that manufacturers in the U.S. are held to, and these toys may have paint that contain lead or are made from plastic with high levels of PCB’s. Purchasing toys from trusted brands such as products by Babyeinstein, will give you the piece of mind that baby’s toys are manufactured to the highest standards.

3. Age Appropriate. Even though you may think your child is mature for their age or advanced in their development, it is always wise to stick with age appropriate toys. No matter how smart we think our children are, they are still small and inexperienced. Safety guidelines help dictate what is age appropriate based on the ability of a child to get hurt from using the toy, not based on their advancements. Try to always purchase within their age limits to keep your child safe.

4. Entertainment Value. Look for toys that will actually keep your child amused. It does not necessarily have to be a large or complicated item; it can be something as simple as a ball that they can roll across the floor. It is easy to get consumed with toys that are educational, but many children will have the ability to learn from any toy if they are interested enough to play with it. Look for something that you can do together or possibly something that involves your other children. Toys can also be a way to bond and bring everyone in the family closer.

When you are out shopping for toys, give yourself a little extra time to examine the product and make a choice that is most beneficial to your child and yourself. Children need to play, it helps them to develop and grow. Parents need to make sure that when they do play, they will remain safe, which is easy to accomplish when you review a product before you buy.

As a mom of 3, author Georgina Clatworthy knows the importance of choosing toys from reputable manufacturers such as products by Babyeinstein. Kids II is global leader when it comes to trusted brands for baby toys and products. For 40 years they have been inventing innovative, award winning toys under its flagship brands.

DECEMBER IS SAFE TOYS AND GIFTS AWARENESS MONTH

For several years, Prevent Blindness America has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month.  For parents, grandparents and others shopping for children, there are many things to consider about the choices they make.  Children have been seen in emergency rooms due to choking, eye injuries, or even poisoning.  Most of this was caused by injuries due to poorly made items and misuse of toys. 

In a 2010 report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission,  it was estimated that hospital emergency rooms treated 251,700 toy-related injuries throughout the U.S.  Of that number, 72 percent of injuries were to those less than 15 years of age.  They also found that 46 percent of the 251,700 ER-treated injuries occurred to the head and face area.  Lacerations, abrasions, and contusions made up most of the injuries.

There are two things to keep in mind when shopping for toys:

(1)   Keep the age of the child in mind when purchasing gifts and consider their maturity level.  Read the age recommendations and any warnings on the packaging, and abide by them.

(2)   Select toys that are well constructed and meet the American society for testing and Materials’ (ASTM) approval.  You will see a label on the package if the item meets these standards. 

Prevent Blindness asks you to make these recommendations to family members and friends about gifts that you feel are appropriate for your child, and be diligent about inspecting the gifts before the child plays with them.  This may seem a little heartless at Christmas, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. 

Choose toys that are a developmental tool as well as a recreational activity for children, not to cause harm.  Children should be supervised at all times, and instructed on the proper use of the toy.  Labels are the best way to decide whether a toy or other item is right for a child.  Most new toys have appropriate age labels and these should be followed.  Stuffed items should be machine washable, fabric items should be non-flammable and/or flame resistant, and art supplies should read non-toxic.  Crayons and paints should say ASTM D-4236 on the package, ( evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials).  Outdoor recreational items such as skateboards or baseballs should be accompanied by the appropriate safety gear, such as helmets and gloves.  BB Guns should be given to only those of the proper age and maturity to handle them safely, and comfortable safety goggles should be included. 

Keep these tips in mind throughout the year, as children are given toys more often than just at Christmas.  It’s just a good time to emphasize that we want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday season! 

Source: PBA