Babies and Toddlers

Buying Toys

Whether your child has asked for something specific, or you are searching for that one special gift it is important to know what is safe and of the best value before making a purchase. For updated information on TOY RECALLS, be sure to visit our Mattel is Trying to Kill You Forum (hey, with the amount of recalls they put out, we have every right to poke fun...).

Buying Safe Toys Checklist
• Most toys will have a 'recommended age' labeling. Take a look at this guideline which notes the age range best suited for a toy.
• Read the toy's instructions. Scan the toy and it's packaging for warnings or other safety related messages.
• Toys with sharp points or edges should be avoided. Toys made of glass or plastic could break and reveal sharp edges. Be aware!
• Examine wooden, plastic or metal toys to ensure component pieces cannot become unattached or broken.
• Soft toys and plush animals should be checked for attachments which could easily be pulled or peeled off.
• Make sure small toys are large enough not to be swallowed or ingested.
• To avoid poisoning, scan toys to make sure they are not labeled toxic. Pay particular attention to paint sets, buying only 'non-toxic' paints. Remember small batteries are toxic and a choking hazard.
• Toys making loud noises increase the chance of ear injury and hearing loss. Avoid them.
• Vintage toys, the ones found in antique shops, should not be given to a child if there is a chance the toy contains lead paint.
• Crib toys with strings or wires longer than 12 inches can be a choking hazard for children that stand or crawl.
• Make sure the toy is one a child would enjoy. If not, the child will end up playing with a toy of unknown safety!

So what if you weren't the person to buy that new toy for your child? Below is a checklist of how to properly inspect gifts to your children for safety concerns. Many people will include a gift reciept with all toys, or most stores will now offer store credit should you decide to return an item. If a toy in your house shows up on a RECALL LIST, the manufacturer will replace the toy or refund your money. So check those lists often!

New Toy Safety Checklist
• Read any instructions included with a new toy. If needed, instruct your child on using their new toy.
• Pay attention to any warnings or safety messages included on the toy or its packaging.
• Throw any toy away if it becomes broken and cannot be fixed.
• Make sure batteries are properly installed in toys. Batteries are toxic and are a choking hazard.
• Never allow your child to sleep with a battery operated toy.
• Regularly examine toys to ensure they are still safe to use.
• Toys scattered on the floor are a tripping hazzard for your entire family. Instruct children to put their toys away.
• Toy boxes should be light weight, well ventilated and have a lid support.
• Supervise children if they are playing with balloons. Immediately throw away pieces of broken balloons.
• Throw away all toy packaging such as plastic, cellophane and styrofoam. Cut the plastic and cellophane bags open to eliminate any chance for suffocation.