Choosing Kid Safe toys

Small children really love plush toys and they are a good gift selection. However, make sure they are safe for your children by looking at the danger of the toys. Are the eyes, nose, and other small features fastened on tightly? These must be tightly secured so they won’t come off if the child chews on it.

Electric toys with heating elements are to be bought for children over eight years of age. Don’t be tempted to buy these because they’re a bargain and would be fun to play with. When children are playing unsupervised any toy with electrical heating elements are unsafe and can be hazardous.

Before you buy toys for your tot, check to see if they’ve been recalled. The U.S. consumer Product Safety Commission can tell you if a toy has been recalled that pose a serious safety threat to your tot. You can visit their website at www.cpsc.gov by calling a toll free number. That number is (800) 638-2772. You might be surprised when you find out some of the leading toy makers have recalled toys. It would be a good idea to check older toys that a child may have to be sure they are not on the recall list. The website will also give you the information on what to do with a toy that you have that is on the recall list.

Watch for those twisty ties that keep toys secure in their packages. They may keep them looking nice in the store but are a hazard as they are taken off the toy. They often have a small plastic backing between the cardboard and the tie. Even if your toddler’s toys don’t have these, an older sibling might receive a toy with them. They need to be properly discarded to avoid any danger to a younger child.

Do your research and buy the toys that are suitable to the age of your child.