Children holding toys, concept of the childhood / blog - safe toys for children

When it comes to finding safe toys for children, how many options are on the shelves can be overwhelming. There are so many toys that seem like the perfect addition, and one may have captured your child’s attention. There are many factors to consider when choosing the best toy options. 

Finding Safe Toys For Your Children

Finding safe toys for children comes down to these seven tips. You can find the most fun toys while ensuring they are safe for your child’s use. At HealthPark Pediatrics, we aim to set your child up for secure success. 

Tip 1: Read The Warning Labels On Products 

All toys will come with a warning label that can give you essential information regarding what can go wrong with them. This can also supply you with the age at which the toy is designed for. Giving a toy to a child who is considered too young could be dangerous. Follow what the manufacturer has decided on that. 

Tip 2: Avoid Toys With Toxic Materials 

Some toys are made with materials you would not want around your child. Please pay attention to these materials and research whether they are safe for children. Those that say “non-toxic” on the packaging are the safest choice for your child. The Mayo Clinic also addresses the importance of keeping toys out of children’s mouths, especially those that you are unaware of what they are made of. 

Tip 3: Watch Out For Small Pieces 

Many toys are made up of small pieces that children can easily dislodge. These pieces then become a choking hazard for young children. This means looking for safe toys for children larger than their mouths. No part of the toy should be concerned about getting swallowed or choked on by a child. While choking and swallowing are a significant concern, the small pieces also leave a chance for the child to potentially put objects in their nose or ears. This, while it may seem better than swallowing, could present its issue of removing the thing. 

Tip 4: Make Sure There Are Not Magnets 

Toys often contain magnets that bring together parts of the mechanics. This is yet another aspect of toys that can be a choking and a health hazard. The size of magnets in toys makes them small enough to become an issue. On the other hand, magnets can have a detrimental effect on a child’s intestines. 

Tip 5: Pay Attention To A Toy Requiring Batteries 

When a toy requires batteries, it can be where the child could access them. This, similar to the magnets, could present a choking and health hazard to your child. The size gives way for the ability to put it in one’s mouth. Once the child consumed the battery, it could give way to more health issues as it passed through the system. 

Tip 6: Avoid Toys With Loud Noises 

Children’s hearing is very sensitive in their developmental years. Toys that have loud noises can have a detrimental effect on their hearing. Avoiding these toys rid you of the concern that they could impact your child’s ears. 

Healthychildren.org has an article detailing ways to preserve your child’s hearing with toys and technology here. This describes the importance of paying attention to the sounds your child’s toys give off. Your child’s hearing could be affected by loud noises at any age in their development. 

Tip 7: Look For Well Made Stuffed Toys 

Well-made stuffed toys are essential to be washed and for the material to be fireproof. Having a stuffed toy that parents can clean gives you the peace of mind that your child is not playing with a dirty toy. The seams should also be secure to avoid strangulation on loose parts.  

Safe toys for children do not have to be hard to come by. Understanding these tips and being watchful in the store can make choosing the best toys for your child easy. Do you have questions about safe toys for children? Contact us through our website or give us a call at (919) 896-7066.