Toy selection is an adult responsibility - not all toys on the market are safe. Carefully consider each toy before giving it to children & be sure to choose age appropriate toys.
Check toys for rough or sharp edges. Choose toys that are washable & durable.
Immediately discard any plastic packaging from a new toy. Be cautious of hand-made toys & toys purchased from craft shows.
Check toys for small pieces that might break off & cause choking. Find a website that lists children's toy & equipment recalls.
Toys with long strings or cords can cause strangulation.
Toy boxes should have lightweight lids that are easily opened from the inside & have a locking mechanism with "pinch-proof" hinges.
Be sure battery operated toys have well-secured batteries & that screws are tight and not protruding.
It's important for children to develop cutting skills, but remind children that scissors are not toys & their use should be supervised.
Be sure all art materials are non-toxic & approved for use by children.
Be sure children know the proper techniques & safety precautions before allowing them to use toys & crafts.
Provide areas for older children to use when they play with toys not appropriate for younger siblings.
Electric toys should have the Underwriter's Approval on the cord.
Avoid toys that shoot "projectiles." Develop a family policy on "weapon" toys. Teach children not to point them at people, or use them to hurt people.
Arrows & darts made for children should have blunt tips & be made from resilient materials such as rubber. Make sure the tips are secure.
Supervise toddlers using riding toys outside & be sure riding toys hold child's weight.
Scooters, bikes, trikes & other wheeled toys should only be used if the rider is wearing a safety helmet.
Keep balloons away from young children & supervise older children during use.