Top Toy Safety Tips Every Parent Should Know Before Buying New Toys

Toys, a simple word that is powerful enough to light up any child’s face. Whether it’s a stacking, sensory toy for growing babies, or an educational toy to spark curiosity, every toy has its own charm that seamlessly keeps kids engaged. No matter how attractive and advanced a toy may seem, when it comes to a child’s safety, many of them fall short to offer a safe playtime.

Why Toys are Important?

A toy not only adds fun and entertainment to a child’s day, but it also plays a pivotal role in early growth and learning. A toy with its unique features can support overall cognitive development, strengthen hand-eye coordination, improve spatial awareness, enhance STEM learning and much more.

Safety Matters:

No matter how visually attractive and interactive a toy is, it can be hazardous to your precious little one. Parents often find it difficult to choose a toy that blends both fun and safety. Toy related injuries are common and serious in India as well as in many other countries. Every year, there are countless incidents caused by toys that could have been avoided. In the US, between 1990-2011, an estimated 3,278,073 toy related injuries were recorded.* Hence, before buying your kid their favourite toy, take a moment to review the important safety measures for safer playtimes ahead.

The Safety Checklist:

Toys are an integral part of a child’s development; however, they can sometimes be harmful and result in thousands of injuries. Whether you are looking for a birthday present for your child or planning to surprise your little one, keep these following tips in mind before choosing toys for kids.

Ø  Choking Hazards

Kids tend to put objects or small parts of their toys into their mouths. Toys that feature small components can be extremely dangerous for kids as these small toy parts can be easily be swallowed. To prevent such circumstances, keep your little one away from toys or playsets that may contain choking hazards.

Ø  Age-Appropriate Toys

Before surprising your child with a toy, make sure to carefully go through the age-related instructions. Most toys from renowned toy brands come with an age recommendation label, so always check before making a choice.

Ø  Non-Toxic Materials

As children always love exploring objects with curiosity, look for toys that are BIS marked. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) comes with set rules for quality and safety. Always choose toys that are crafted from BPA-free plastics and allow your child to play with BIS certified toys for assured safety. 

Ø  Smooth, Edge-Free Finish

Often toys for boys like RC cars and pull-back cars have harsh edges that can hurt soft little hands. Even doll sets or DIY jewelry and styling kits that are ideal as toys for girls may also contain rough finishes and edges. To avoid unnecessary cuts and discomfort while playing, always choose high-quality edge-free toys for a safe play experience.

Be careful when choosing a toy for your child. Especially if you are buying toys for kids under 14 years, always check the age recommendations mentioned on the packaging. Because, a little attention today can make your child’s playtimes truly memorable.