January 26, 2004

By: Ushi Boor
Website: http://www.1st-in-toys.com

SAFE KIDS Coalition Offers Tips to Play it Safe for the Holidays

The beginning of the holiday season inevitably means the beginning of the toy-buying season. In fact, more than 50 percent of toys are purchased between September and December alone. Although the majority of toys are safe, they can become dangerous if misused or if they fall into the hands of children who are too young to play with them.

Young children are especially at risk when it comes to toys because they can easily choke on small toys or even small parts, says Kyla Kelly, Director of the Magic Valley SAFE KIDS Coalition. Parents should consider whether the toy is appropriate for the child’s age and whether the gift requires protective gear accessories such as helmets and knee pads.

The Magic Valley SAFE KIDS Coalition recommends the following precautionary tips when selecting gifts this holiday season:

Select Safe Toys

Each year, more than 121,000 children ages 14 and under are treated in hospital emergency rooms for toy-related injuries. Innocent-looking toys— such as marbles and balloons—present a choking hazard to small children. The Child Safety Protection Act, a federal toy labeling law, requires manufacturers to place warning labels on toys that pose a choking hazard to young children. When selecting a toy for your child, avoid the following:

* Toys with small removable parts. The small parts are hazardous and can pose a choking hazard to children under age 3. Use a small parts tester (which can be purchased at a toy or baby specialty store) to measure the size of the toy or part. If the piece fits entirely inside the tube, then it is considered a choking hazard.

* Toys with sharp points or edges. Children may unintentionally cut themselves or another person.

* Toys that produce loud noises. Toy guns and high-volume portable cassette recorders can permanently impair a child’s hearing.

* Propelled toy darts and other projectiles. Propelled toys can cause cuts or serious eye injuries.

* Toys with strings, straps or cords longer than seven inches. Long strings and cords could wrap around a child’s neck and unintentionally strangle him or her.

* Electrical toys. Electrical toys are a potential burn hazard. Avoid toys with a heating element—batteries, electrical plugs—for children under age 8.

* Toys painted with lead paint. Exposure to lead can result in lead poisoning, causing serious damage to a child’s brain, kidneys and nervous system.

* Toy cap guns. Paper roll, strip or ring caps can be ignited by the slightest friction and cause serious burns.

Follow Age Recommendations When Selecting Toys

Many toy-related injuries occur when parents overestimate their child’s ability to handle a toy designed for an older age group. Age recommendations for toys not only take into account a child’s cognitive abilities, but they also consider the overall safety of a toy. Be especially aware of safety labeling on a toy’s packaging, such as this toy is not appropriate for children under 3.

The Magic Valley SAFE KIDS Coalition recommends using the following guidelines for age appropriate toys:

* Infants under age 1 — In the first few months of their lives, children are immobile. Eventually, they learn to reach, roll over and sit up. In the second six months, children become more mobile and are at an increased risk for choking. The most suitable toys for the first year include activity quilts, stuffed animals without button noses and eyes, bath toys, soft dolls, baby swings, cloth books and squeaky toys.

* Children ages 1 to 3 — At this age, children are curious and have little sense of danger. They like to climb, jump, throw and play rough-and-tumble games. The best toys for this age group are books, blocks, fit-together toys, balls, push-and-pull toys, pounding toys and shape toys.

* Children ages 3 to 5 — As any parent of a preschooler can tell you, these children think with their feet and spend much of their time running. They like tests of physical strength and begin to develop skills such as the ability to ride a tricycle, finger control, as well as the ability to build with large blocks and construction materials. Toys that are most suitable for this age group include approved nontoxic art supplies, books, videos, musical instruments and outdoor toys such as a baseball tee, slide or swing.

* Children ages 5 to 9 — It is in the early part of this age group that children become creative and more physically active. They can write, engage in arts and crafts, and they are able to use simple mechanical toys such as cars and trains. Recommended toys include craft materials, jump ropes, puppets, books, electric trains (after age 8) and sports equipment. Remember, children ages 8 and up can begin to use electrical and battery-operated toys. Check tape recorders and battery-operated toys regularly for loose or exposed wires. Don’t allow children to change batteries.

* Children ages 9 to 14 — At this age, children enjoy team sports and games that require increased dexterity such as pick-up sticks, marbles and jacks. Strenuous physical activity is also popular for this age group. Children begin to develop hobbies and a strong interest in scientific activities. For these children, appropriate gifts include computers, microscopes, table and board games, and outdoor and team sports equipment. Ensure that older children’s toys are kept out of reach of younger children for whom they may present a danger.

Also see: Kids Toys

About The Author:

Ushi Boor is a successful author and regular contributor to http://www.1st-in-toys.com.  Find all the toys you wish you had as a kid. Fun and educational toys found here.