(NAPSI)—Getting new toys for your kids or grandkids on holidays, birthdays or any time can be fun, but it’s wise to watch out for these four safety concerns:
What To Watch Out For
1. Counterfeits: A recent survey conducted by Wakefield Research for The Toy Association found that nearly one in three toy-buying parents didn’t know that fake toys are sometimes sold on major online marketplaces by illegitimate third-party sellers. These toys might not be tested for safety. On the other hand, legitimate toys sold by responsible sellers comply with more than 100 federal safety standards and tests. Always dig deeper into a lesser-known online seller’s history and read reviews before making your purchase. You can also buy toys directly from a brand’s website or follow the provided links to official retailers selling their products.
2. Age Grading: An alarming 96 percent of parents surveyed are confident that their child can play with a toy even if they are younger than the toy’s age recommendation. But age-grading isn’t merely a suggestion—it’s based on the developmental abilities of kids at a given age and the specific features of a toy. When children play with a toy meant for an older child, they might misuse it and get hurt. Age grading can be found directly on toy packaging or in product descriptions for all legitimate toys sold online.
3. Small Parts: Pay special attention to toys labeled 3+, since these toys may contain small parts that can be a choking hazard for children under 3 (or kids at any age who still mouth toys). Toys with small parts have a warning label on the packaging, so keep a careful eye out as you shop, and consider getting a Small Parts Tester (available in most toy stores) to check other small objects around the home.
4. Household Dangers: Kids can find ways to play with anything—including objects that are not really toys, such as small powerful magnets (found in executive desk toys) or button cell batteries (from remotes, hearing aids, and the like). These objects can be very dangerous if accidentally swallowed. Always keep them out of children’s reach.
Share these tips with other gift-givers, and always supervise children while they play.
Learn More
For more toy safety information, visit The Toy Association’s reliable resource for families at www.PlaySafe.org.