As a parent, seeing the joy on your child’s face when they open presents is part of what makes the holidays so special. While you always want to get them the toys they want, you also want to make sure those toys are safe. No parent wants to visit urgent care over the holidays!
Fortunately, there are some easy precautions to take to ensure the toys you are buying are safe. Here are six tips to keep in mind while you are shopping for that perfect gift for your child this holiday season.
1. Always Buy Age Appropriate Toys
If you look on the packaging of most toys, you can find the age recommendation from the manufacturer. This includes video games. Even if your kids point fingers at something they really want at the toy store, always check the package first for age-appropriateness. While you may think your child is mature enough for more advanced toys or content, small objects on toys can be choking hazards. It’s best not to ignore the manufacturer’s guidelines.
2. Beware of Cheap Knock Offs When Buying Online
A study from the Toy Association found that 47 percent of parents purchased a toy from an online store they later found out was fake. These fake toys can be a hazard as they may have broken or loose pieces or could be made from harmful materials. To avoid getting a cheap knock-off toy, it’s always good to buy directly from the manufacturer. If that’s not possible, buy from a well-known retailer. Check the ratings for the seller and the product to ensure you will be satisfied.
3. Make Sure the Toy can Withstand Play
This is especially important for babies and toddlers, who end up putting most toys in their mouths. You want to make sure toys are sturdy enough to withstand the active play of toddlers. If toys have fabric, wipe it down frequently to ward off bacteria, mold and grubbiness. Watch out for toys that have sharp ends and removable parts, like buttons or eyes, which can be choking hazards. If you are in doubt, check the online reviews for the toy you are eyeing to see if it stood up to normal play and wear and tear.
4. Check for Product Recalls
Each year, children’s toys and other household items are recalled as they pose a danger to kids, such as suffocation, choking and swallowing hazards. Safe Kids’ recall center compiles a list of monthly and annual toy recalls, which can be a useful resource if your child plays with hand-me-downs or second hand toys. Another great resource for your family: Recalls.gov, which tracks all US-based household product recalls.
5. Watch for Connected Toys
Many modern toys are equipped with microphones and speakers, and link to companion apps that the manufacturer can access. While these toys are fun, they can pose a safety risk to your child. Some interactive toys have been recalled because they collected children’s voices without adequate permission. Other toys that allow unauthorized Bluetooth access can increase the risk of predatory or stalking behavior. To protect your kids, reject cookies, turn on your smartphone’s privacy settings, and download web privacy tools. Also, be sure to monitor your child when they are using connected toys and have a conversation with them about cyber safety. National PTA’s PTA Connected programs offers tips for talking to kids and teens about online safety.
6. Purchase Additional Safety Items
Some big-ticket items for older children like bikes or skateboards are fun, but can also cause injuries. Buy knee pads, helmets or any other protective gear sold with the toy as part of your gift to encourage safety right from the beginning.
