Not all toy hazards can be detected, nor can
any toy be completely safe for all children at all times.
The unique combination of child, toy, and the way the child
uses the toy determines the safety risk. The best safety
features of any toy include matching the toy to the child's
age and abilities, and an alert adult supervising the
child's play. Although toy companies try to make their toys
as safe as possible, it is up to you to make sure your
child's play is safe.
Accidents are most likely to occur when:
- The toy is too large or complicated
for your child.
- There is no responsible adult
supervising the child.
- The toy is misused, damaged, or
cheaply constructed.
- A younger sibling or playmate plays
with the toy.
Toy Safety Checklist
- The toy is not too heavy for your
child's strength.
- The toy is well-constructed. (A poorly
made toy can break or come apart, easily exposing
hazards like wires or springs.)
- The toy does not have sharp edges that
can cut or scratch.
- There are no pointed objects your
child can fall on.
- All moving parts are securely
attached.
- A broken toy is repaired or thrown
away.
- Indoor toys are kept indoors so they
do not rust.
- All riding toys are well-constructed
and well-balanced.
- Toys made with cloth carry the labels
"flame resistant", "flame retardant", or "nonflammable".
Make sure your child wears a helmet for all bicycle and
skateboard activity and for in-line skating. Provide
protective padding and wrist guards and require your child
wear them to minimize in-line skating and skateboard
injuries. Set clear rules for in-line skating, bicycle and
skateboard riding.
Suggested
Play Materials
- Sand box and sand toys
- Construction sets
- Art materials: crayons, chalk, paint,
modeling clay, simple weaving materials
- Chalkboard, flannel board
- Dolls from other countries
- Small bicycle, wagon
- Jump rope
- Costume dress-up box
- Simple board games
- Paper doll sets
- Puppets (store-bought or homemade)
- Playhouse
- Puzzles
- Kite
- Globe
- Magnet
- Magnifying glass
- Lock with key
- Aquarium
- Terrarium
- Books
