Toy Safety
- Proper selection of toys--look for age recommendations on toys. Toys
that are too advanced can be a safety hazard for younger children.
- Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed by children under
three.
- Avoid toys with strings longer than a foot, which can be a strangulation
hazard for children under three.
- For children under eight, avoid toys with sharp edges and points. Electric
toys and toys with heating elements are also not appropriate yet.
- Children under eight can choke or suffocate on uninflated and broken
balloons.
- Supervision of child's play--pay special attention to a toy's directions;
always, remove and immediately discard all packaging from a toy before
giving it to a baby or small child.
- Encourage use and care for toys-spot check toys regularly for minor damage and urge children to let you know when toys need repair.
Toy
Industry Association Guidelines
US Consumer Products
Safety Commission