SAFETY WITH CHILDREN'S TOYS
Now is the time for parents to be on guard as new toys come into
the house. Precautions need to be taken to ensure the safety of
children.
Here are suggestions to keep children safe from toys:
- Choose toys that have labels with age recommendations such
as "Recommended for Children Three to Five Years Old."
Some toys or games that are safe for older children may contain
small parts that are hazardous in a younger child's hand.
- Choose toys that are easy to wash and keep clean. Wash infant
and toddler toys daily. Try to give each infant and toddler separate
crib toys that will not be used by another child the same day.
- Choose fabric toys that are labeled flame-retardant or nonflammable.
- Check stuffed toys to be sure eyes and other parts are stitched
on securely. Squeakers should be secured in place.
- Remove any toys with sharp points or rough edges. Some plastic
toys become brittle with age.
- Make sure toys are sturdy so they will not splinter or break
with normal use.
- Give infants and toddlers only toys that are too large to
be swallowed.
- Read the labels on crayons, paints, clay and other material
to be sure they are not poisonous if put in the mouth.
- Do not let children play with shooting toys such as BB guns
and darts as well as caps or anything that explodes.
- Avoid toys with electrical parts unless children are school-age
and know how to handle them safely.
- Store toys and learning material on low shelves where children
can reach them. Place heavy toys near the floor.
12/22/97
Lesia Oesterreich
Family Life Specialist
Iowa State University Extension
1086 LeBaron Hall
Iowa State University
Ames, IA 50011
(515) 294-0363
Treva Blumenshine
Extension Communication Systems