Toys are a staple of summer play — but not all toys are safe for all children, and many toy-related injuries happen because parents are unaware of the specific hazards lurking in the toy box. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has set mandatory safety regulations for toys and children’s articles under the Federal Hazardous Substances Act and the Consumer Product Safety Act, but protecting children from unsafe toys is ultimately the responsibility of every parent and caregiver. Careful toy selection and proper supervision are still the best ways to prevent toy-related injuries.
When Buying Toys
- Choose toys with care. Keep in mind the child’s age, interests, and skill level. Avoid toys too complex for young children.
- Be a label reader. Look for and follow age recommendations such as “Not Recommended for Children Under Three.” Look for “Non-Toxic” labels on painted toys, “Flame Retardant/Flame Resistant” on fabric products, and “Washable/Hygienic Materials” on stuffed toys and dolls.
- Look for quality design and construction. Make sure all directions or instructions are clear to you and, when appropriate, to the child.
- Discard plastic wrappings on toys immediately before they become dangerous playthings.
Specific Hazards to Watch For
Sharp Edges and Points: New toys intended for children under eight years of age must be free of sharp glass and metal edges. With use, however, older toys may break, exposing cutting edges. Broken toys may also develop dangerous points or prongs. Stuffed toys may have wires inside that could cut or stab if exposed.
Small Parts: Federal law bans small parts in toys intended for children under three. This includes removable small eyes and noses on stuffed toys and dolls and small, removable squeakers on squeeze toys. Keep toys designed for older children out of reach of younger children.
Balloons: More children have suffocated on uninflated balloons and pieces of broken balloons than on any other type of toy. Keep deflated balloons away from children younger than age 8, and discard broken balloon pieces immediately.
Cords and Strings: Toys with long strings or cords are dangerous for infants and very young children — the cords can become wrapped around an infant’s neck, causing strangulation. Never hang toys with long strings, cords, loops, or ribbons in cribs or playpens where children can become entangled. Remove crib gyms from the crib when the child can pull up on hands and knees.
Loud Noises: Toy caps and some noise-making guns and other toys can produce sounds at noise levels that can damage hearing. Do not fire closer than one foot from the ear and do not use indoors.
Propelled Objects: Projectiles such as guided missiles and similar flying toys can be turned into weapons and can cause serious eye injuries. Arrows or darts used by children should have soft cork tips, rubber suction cups, or other protective tips. Check that tips are secure. Never allow children to use toy dart guns or other toys capable of firing non-intended articles such as pencils or nails.
Electric Toys: Electric toys with heating elements are recommended only for children over eight years old. Children should be taught to use electric toys properly, cautiously, and under adult supervision.
When Maintaining and Storing Toys
- Check all toys periodically for breakage and potential hazards. A damaged or dangerous toy should be thrown away or repaired immediately.
- Examine all outdoor toys regularly for rust or weak parts that could become hazardous.
- Teach children to put toys safely away on shelves or in a toy chest after playing to prevent trips and falls.
- Use a toy chest that has a lid that will stay open in any position to which it is raised and will not fall unexpectedly on a child. Make sure there are ventilation holes for fresh air and no sharp edges or pinching hinges.
- Store outdoor toys after play. Rain or dew can rust or damage toys and toy parts, creating additional hazards.
To report an unsafe toy or a product-related injury, visit SaferProducts.gov or call CPSC’s Hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 800-638-8270).
Source: https://www.cpsc.gov/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Toys
