Hobbies And Interests
Age Appropriateness
Choose toys for your children that are appropriate for their age. Toys that are too advanced for the children may lead to injury in an attempt to use them. For example, a bicycle makes a great gift for an older child, but it can be a hazard to a small child attempting to ride it. It would be too heavy and hard to control, leaving the child in a dangerous situation if it were to tip and fall onto the child. Use caution also when accommodating children of different ages, as younger children tend to want to play with toys belonging to an older sibling or schoolmate.
The Materials are Safe
Check the label or the packaging on stuffed animals and dress-up costumes to make sure they state that the item is flame-retardant or nonflammable. Use caution when purchasing toys made from thinner plastic, as they can end up with sharp and jagged edges if they break. Ensure that the accessories sewn or attached to the toy, such as eyes, noses or buttons, are secured to avoid potential choking hazards, and discard any packaging materials and fasteners prior to allowing children to play with them.
Toys Lacking Small Parts
Toys for young children and infants often advertise that they are not made for small children under the age of three due to small parts which may be inserted into the ear canals, nostrils or put in the mouth, potentially becoming a choking hazard. Keep toys with smaller parts out of reach of babies and toddlers.
Non-Toxic
Toys must be decorated with and made from non-toxic materials. Do not allow children to play with costume jewelry, metal toys that have started to show signs of rusting, battery compartments that are easily opened, magnets and toys that may be decorated with paint. Older painted toys may contain lead paint, which is extremely harmful if swallowed.