There are so many toys to choose from around the holiday season, it can be overwhelming. But the most important decision to make when purchasing a toy for your child or teen is the safety of the toy. There are thousands of toy recalls each year due to dangerous and defective toy products. Even now, there are highly dangerous toys on sale in most major stores such as Target, Wal-Mart and on Amazon.com.
Remember, just because a toy is for sale in a reputable retailer, does not mean that toy is safe and will not harm your child. And many toys do have warning labels, but they are ignored, because consumers assume they are safe if they are for sale at a reputable retailer.
In 2015 alone, there were 254,000 toy-related injuries treated in U.S hospital emergency rooms. This alarming number proves there are still many toys on the market that pose a serious threat to a child’s safety.
With December being “National Safe Toys and Gifts Month” and the height of toy shopping season, we want to help parents select the safest and most appropriate toys for their kids.
Below are guidelines to keep in mind when purchasing toys this holiday season, according to SafeKids:
- Age. When choosing a toy, keep in mind your child’s age. Although many toys come with a recommended age, some manufacturers do not list this on the package. It is up to you to make the best decision for your child. Additionally, it is wise to consider your child’s capabilities, size and personality.
- Choking hazards. Thoroughly inspect the toy or game for any potential choking hazards- whether it is detachable items on a doll or action figure, pieces to a game, or parts to a building set. Even if the toy does not issue a choking hazard, toys can become dangerous when children detach parts on toys.
- Protective gear. Although many toy packages have children pictured with safety gear, it is often not included in the purchase. Before selecting a toy, make sure to buy the necessary masks, helmets and elbow and knee pads to keep your child and their friends safe.
Next time you go shopping for a toy, please think not about what toy your child will like most, but what toy will be most safe and suitable for them. In the grand scheme of things, it is our children’s safety and well-being that matters the most.
At Daggett Shuler, we deeply care about the safety and well-being of all children. Please be mindful when selecting gifts for your children this holiday season and keep an eye out for toys that may pose a threat to your child’s safety.
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