Dear Doctor Column, December 11, 2006
Question:
How do I choose safe toys for small children?
Answer:
This is a timely question as we head into the confusion of holiday shopping. While most toy-related injuries are minor, they can result in serious harm and even death. In 2005, 20 children died from toy-related accidents. Choking on small balls or toy parts is the leading cause of toy-related deaths, the US Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) reports. Falls from riding toys lead to the most injuries in general, and BB guns, slingshots, and other projectile toys cause the majority of eye injuries.
A few simple guidelines can help ensure a safe holiday season for your family:
Ø Read labels. Look for toys with age and safety recommendations and use the information as a guide.
Ø Select appropriate toys for the child’s age, abilities, and interests. Look for sturdy construction, such as tightly secured parts.
Ø Avoid small parts. Do not give children younger than 3 years toys with small parts, which can cause choking.
Ø Be aware of the hazards of magnets. Do not give children younger than 6 years building sets or toy jewelry with small magnets. If your child swallows more than one magnet, they can attract each other in the body, which can cause intestinal tears, blockages, and death. In 2005, one child died and several others were seriously injured after swallowing magnets.
Ø Avoid sharp edges and points. Do not give children younger than 8 years toys with sharp edges or points.
Ø Be cautious with riding toys. Skateboards, in-line skates, and other riding toys are capable of high speeds and falls from these toys can be deadly. Always include appropriate safety gear such as helmets and knee pads and make sure they fit the child properly.
Ø Be cautious with projectile toys. Do not give toys such as air rockets, darts, and slingshots to children younger than 8 years. These toys can lead to serious eye injury if used improperly.
Ø Supervise the use of battery chargers and adapters. Chargers and adapters can cause burns.
Ø Look for the letters ASTM, which indicate that the product meets the national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
Once presents are opened, be sure to:
Ø Throw away plastic wrap.
Ø Pay special attention to instruction and warning on battery chargers ─ some don’t have a device to prevent overcharging.
Ø Keep deflated or broken balloons away from small children.
Sources: CPSC, Toy Industry Association
Adults also should be aware that toys capable of loud sounds ─ cap guns, personal music players, and others ─ can damage children’s hearing. Click here to learn more about noise-related hearing damage.
Additional toy safety tips include:
t Supervise children while they play to avoid injury. A toy intended for an older child may be dangerous in the hands of a younger child.
t Join in your child’s play. Your participation adds to your child’s fun and development.
t Teach children to put toys away after playing. Safe storage prevents falls and other injuries.
t Check old and new toys regularly for damage. Make repairs immediately or throw away damaged toys.