As you purchase gifts this holiday season, make sure you play safe while purchasing toys.
About 3 Billion toys are sold in the U.S. every year, all toys in stores are subject to over 100 safety tests and standards that are required by federal law. Of those, less than one-tenth of one percent are recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission. Though all toys requires tests before authorization, it is still important to consider other downsides of purchasing toys this season.
We have gathered a list of tips for you to think about as your Holiday shopping continues:
- Be sure to check and follow age guidance and other safety information on toy packaging. Remember, the age-grading isn’t about how smart your child is—it’s safety guidance that’s based on the developmental skills and abilities of children at a given age, and the specific features of a toy.
- Avoid toys with small parts when shopping for children under age three and children who mouth toys. Test the size of toys and other objects around the home with a Small Parts Tester.
- Avoid toys with sharp points or rough edges, especially for younger children.
- Consider your child’s age and development when purchasing a toy or game. Read the instructions and warning labels to make sure it’s just right for your child.
Since Fidget spinner are the latest must have gadgets amongst youth, we gathered some tips on taking precautions to ensure children are using them appropriately.
- Make sure fidget spinners are age-appropriate. Always follow age labeling, and if the spinner does not have age guidance on its packaging, don’t buy it. Never give children under three years of age (or those who still put toys in their mouths) any items, such as fidget spinners, that have small parts. Children who are old enough to play with fidget spinners should be taught how to play with them correctly—and instructed never to put them in their mouths.
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Shop at a reputable retailer that you know and trust. Those retailers will be selling products that have been tested and comply with strict U.S. safety standards. When a craze like the fidget spinners hits, you may be tempted to buy one for your child wherever you can find one (like at a pop-up vendor on the street or from an unknown online seller), but the safety of products sold outside a reputable retailer cannot be guaranteed.
For more tips on fidget spinners and toy safety, please check out: playsafe.org and Safe Kids Worldwide!
