Buying Guidelines for Safe and Fun Toys

The right toys can help children develop imagination and coordination. The wrong ones can do more harm than good.

Toy-related injuries send tens of thousands of children to the emergency room each year. Many injuries occur when parents give their children toys meant for older children.

Although many toy manufacturers follow safety guidelines for their products, some don't. Your challenge is to find toys your children will enjoy and that you know are safe.

These suggestions can help you make the right choice when selecting a birthday or holiday gift for children.

Watch for small parts

Don't give toys with small parts to toddlers and small children. These youngsters tend to put things in their mouths, increasing the risk of choking.

Age appropriate

Select toys to suit a child's age, abilities, skills and interest level. Toys that are too advanced can pose safety hazards.

Look for standards

Look for the letters "ASTM," which indicate a product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Be sure to read any warning labels before buying toys. Also, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission's website for a list of recalled toys and recall alerts.

Is it noisy?

Avoid toys that make loud or shrill noise to avoid serious ear injury.

Choose well-made stuffed animals

The eyes, noses and other small parts of stuffed animals should be securely fastened to decrease the risk of choking. 

Hobby kits

Never buy hobby kits, such as chemistry sets, for children younger than 12. Provide proper supervision when older children play with such toys.

Watch the action

Avoid toys that shoot or include parts that fly off. Slingshots and high-powered water guns can injure targeted children. BB guns shouldn't be considered toys.

No heat

Avoid toys with electric heating elements.

Inspect toys for solid construction

They should be made of durable materials, have no sharp edges or points and be able to withstand impact.

Read carefully

Read instructions carefully and follow suggested age levels and safety instructions. Age labeling is provided for developmental and safety reasons.

Show and tell

Explain and demonstrate how to use toys.

Toss it

Repair or discard damaged toys.

Keep separate

Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger ones.

How do they play?

Don't let children play with toys in dangerous ways. 

Trash wrappings

Discard wrappings immediately. Sharp staples and plastic bags can cause injuries and pose safety hazards.

Safety rules

Make a list of safety rules and share them with your children. If your youngsters are playing with friends, remind everyone of your safety rules.