Holiday shopping is in full swing and store shelves are filled with all the popular toys for children. But are these popular toys the safest options for your kids? To ensure you are buying the safest toys this holiday season, here are a few tips and examples of popular, safe toys.
Safe Toys for Infants and Toddlers
The age-specific guidelines for choosing toys for infants and toddlers is more extensive than any other age group. These are the most important things to keep in mind:
- Toys should be at least three centimeters in diameter so they aren’t able to be swallowed.
- Marbles and games that include balls are best left for older age groups
- Make sure battery operated games are very secure. Batteries and battery fluid can pose risks for all children.
- Infants and toddlers like to chew on toys. Make sure toys are BPA, phthalate and lead free.
Here are just a few safe toys for infants and toddlers:
- Soft stuffed animals
- Four or five piece puzzles
- Sturdy musical instruments for children such as tambourines and drums
Best Toys for Grade-Schoolers
Even though safety rules for grade-schoolers aren’t as much of an issue as safety toys for infants and toddlers, there are some guidelines to follow when holiday shopping.
- If you purchase a scooter or bicycle for a child, make sure you also get a helmet and other safety gear.
- Make sure toy guns can not be mistaken for real weapons. Also, BB guns or pellet rifles should not be given to children under the age of 16.
