Aside from new toys, there are very few things that could make a child happy. Sadly, not all toys are safe because some of them contain toxins and chemicals that could be dangerous for a child. Here are some tips on how to make sure that the toys we buy our kids are safe.
Buy "safe" products - although most painted toys are safe, you can make sure of this by buying ones that were made in America, Europe or Canada where standards are strictly enforced. A lot of toys, especially those made in China have high levels of lead which is toxic for kids.
Many of these products are recalled when problems are discovered. Periodically check the site for Consumer Product Safety Commission, this is where recalls for products are posted online. When a toy is recalled and you have it, take it away ASAP and follow the steps given on how to get a safe replacement.
Make it a habit to read labels - "Keep out of reach of children" is a very familiar label yet not a lot of people take it seriously. Products with this label may contain a range of environmental hazards including solvents, dusts and metals. Sometimes, even products simply labeled as "non-toxic" may still be dangerous for little children.
To ensure your child's safety, look for these product labels: "Conforms to ASTM/ American Society for Testing and Materials D4236" or Approved product/ Certified product/ Health label. Also look for seals of the Arts & Creative Materials Institute.
It's not all about the chemicals - aside from buying safe toys, parents also need to make sure to create a safe playing environment for their kids. Be aware of tiny toys that could choke your child such as marbles and small toys. Also make sure to use child-safety measures such as covering electrical outlets with safety plates and installing cushions especially made for table corners.
Buy "safe" products - although most painted toys are safe, you can make sure of this by buying ones that were made in America, Europe or Canada where standards are strictly enforced. A lot of toys, especially those made in China have high levels of lead which is toxic for kids.
Many of these products are recalled when problems are discovered. Periodically check the site for Consumer Product Safety Commission, this is where recalls for products are posted online. When a toy is recalled and you have it, take it away ASAP and follow the steps given on how to get a safe replacement.
Make it a habit to read labels - "Keep out of reach of children" is a very familiar label yet not a lot of people take it seriously. Products with this label may contain a range of environmental hazards including solvents, dusts and metals. Sometimes, even products simply labeled as "non-toxic" may still be dangerous for little children.
To ensure your child's safety, look for these product labels: "Conforms to ASTM/ American Society for Testing and Materials D4236" or Approved product/ Certified product/ Health label. Also look for seals of the Arts & Creative Materials Institute.
It's not all about the chemicals - aside from buying safe toys, parents also need to make sure to create a safe playing environment for their kids. Be aware of tiny toys that could choke your child such as marbles and small toys. Also make sure to use child-safety measures such as covering electrical outlets with safety plates and installing cushions especially made for table corners.
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