Toy Safety GuidelinesThe most important consideration when selecting toys is the child's age and developmental level. Too often, overzealous parents and friends select toys that are inappropriate for a child's age and skill level. Most manufacturers include a recommendation for the age level for which the toy is appropriate. (This recommendation usually appears on the outside corner of the toy). A toy that is too advanced probably will be misused, and the likelihood of injury will increase. Choking remains the leading cause of toy deaths. Most often, those deaths are caused by ingested balloons, balls and small toy parts. Carefully inspect a toy before purchasing it. All toy parts should be larger than a child's mouth, so that no part of it can be accidentally swallowed. Some retailers sell a cylindrical tube that serves as a reference when selecting toys. If a piece of the toy can fit through the tube, it also could fit into a child's mouth. Inspect toys for quality construction and design before buying them. Check to see that small parts on stuffed animals or soft toys are securely fastened. Avoid toys with sharp or pointed edges. Read the instructions for use before purchasing toys. Make sure that they are clear and will be understood by the child. Too often, children see toys advertised on television that look simple to set up and play, but, in reality, require more skill than the child possesses. Discard all plastic wrappers that accompany toys. They pose a risk for suffocation if children place them over their heads. Consider the noise level of the toy. Some toys such as caps and guns can produce sounds at noise levels that can damage hearing. The law requires that the following label be placed on boxes of caps producing noise higher than a certain decibel: "Warning - Do not fire closer than 1 foot to the ear. Do not use indoors." Toys that shoot small objects into the air pose a risk for eye injury. Too often, children place objects not intended for firing into dart guns and, thus, create weapons capable of inflicting harm. When shopping for infants or very young children, do not select any toys with long strings or cords attached. The cord or string can become wrapped around a small child's neck and cause strangulation. Don't ever hang toys over a crib or playpen using ribbon or rope because an infant easily can become entangled in them. Toy boxes can be dangerous if a child falls inside and suddenly becomes trapped. Only purchase a toy box that has a lid that will stay open in any position. For added safety, look for a toy box that has ventilation holes for fresh air. Never use pieces of furniture not intended for use as a toy box (chests, cedar boxes or other cabinets) for storing toys, particularly if a small child could easily climb inside and get trapped. Be cautious when selecting electric toys. Toys with heating elements can result in burns in younger children, and these toys are not recommended for children younger than 8. Older children also require adult supervision when using many electrical toys. Suggestions for age-appropriate toysThe American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following list of toys for children of specific age groups. This can be used as a guideline when choosing toys for children. Newborn to 1 year
1 to 2 years oldChildren of this age are quite curious. Toys for this age group should be safe and able to withstand a toddler's manipulation. Examples include:
2 to 5 years oldChildren this age like toys that imitate the activities of parents and older siblings. Examples include:
5 to 9 years oldChildren this age enjoy toys that promote skill development and creativity. Examples include:
10 to 14 years oldChildren this age often have hobbies and they enjoy toys with scientific activities. Examples include:
*This guideline appeared on Healthatoz.com and wasreviewed June 2006, by Richard Lichenstein, M.D., F.A.A.P., Associate Professor of Pediatrics, The University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. |
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