Toys are entertaining and educational. When they are safe, they are the building blocks of a great childhood. Size, materials and washability are just a few of the features to look for when purchasing new toys for your little one. It is also wise periodically to check the website of the Consumer Product Safety Commission for any recalls involving toys.
Safe Size
Small toys can pose a choking hazard. Infants and toddlers, especially, like to explore with their mouths. It is critical to provide them with toys that are too big to be ingested. Kids Health suggests sticking with toys that are larger than 1.75 inches in diameter. The website also advises parents to invest in a small-parts tester. This is also called a choke tube. If the toy fits into the tube, it is too small for your young one. Remember kids can squeeze or break some toys into smaller shapes and sizes.
Some safe, big toys for kids under age 3 include big blocks. Hard blocks are great for stacking, and soft blocks are great for cuddling. Soft books are also a big, safe toy for infants and toddlers. Select colorful books with flaps and gadgets for ultimate stimulation. Stacking cups are safe, and keep toddlers challenged. Infants and toddlers also enjoy rolling large, soft balls from hand-to-hand or back-and-forth to mom and dad.
Stuffed Animals
Toddlers find security in stuffed animals. "Parents" magazine claims that 2- and 3-year-olds learn many life lessons from stuffed animals and dolls. The cuddly critters and little lifelike friends help kids work on their emerging vocabularies and practice people skills. Kids also explore their feelings while playing with dolls and stuffed animals.
Though there are many benefits to playing with stuffed friends, parents should check the safety of stuffed animals and dolls. Kids Health encourages parents to make sure all the parts, like the eyes and nose, are securely attached. It is also wise to pick a stuffed animal that is flame-resistant or flame-retardant and machine washable.
Safe Materials
Because kids have such intimate contact with their toys, it is important that they are made with safe materials. Toys should be painted with lead-free paint. Art supplies should be nontoxic. The Consumer Product Safety Commission cautions parents to buy art materials and toys, such as paint sets, crayons, or modeling clay, that are labeled "Conforms to ASTM D-4236." This means they have been approved for safety by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
If your child is 4 years old or older, he may be searching for an outlet for his creativity. Researchers at Virginia State University suggest offering kids this age paints and paint books as a resource for their developing imagination. ASTM approved modeling clay, activity books and stencils are also recommended for this age group as safe, creative toys. Avoid paints that are oil-based.
References
- Consumer Product Safety Commission: Law Requires Review and Labeling of Art Materials Including Children's Art and Drawing Products
- Kids Health: Choosing Safe Toys
- Parents Magazine: Your Guide to Age-Appropriate Toys
- Virginia Cooperative Extension: Choosing Safe Toys for Children Aged Birth to 12 Years
- Parents Magazine: First Friends: Toddlers and Stuffed Animals
