What Makes a Toy Child-Safe?

Parents often worry that the toys they buy their children are not safe. And they have good reason to be concerned and a large number of toys on the market still are not built in a safe way, although thankfully more and more are these days due to tighter manufacturing regulations. However, parents still need to be careful and below we highlight some of the important things to look out for to ensure toys are safe.

Sharp edges. Many toys that you might not consider to be a risk can have sharp edges that are potentially harmful. As children frequently run with their toys and play with them in a rough manner, picking up a cut or a jab from a sharp-edged toy is very easy.

Small parts. Most people are aware that small parts are not good for children. Because of their inquisitive nature, children often put small things in their mouth and can sometimes swallow or even choke on them. Some toys might appear to have no small parts but because they are made from poor quality materials, parts easily break off and pose an equal risk.

Chemicals. Whether it is dangerous chemicals in plastics, harmful fluids in toys, or simply toxins in the paint that they are decorated with, kids can be seriously harmed by inconsiderate materials. All toys should be tested for such things, but unfortunately some dangerous toys slip through the net.

Mechanical Hazards. Some toys might not seem dangerous at first glance but their pure functioning poses a risk to children. Children can easily be hurt for example by poor quality toys that use elastic parts or springs, when they come lose and hit them in the face. Another example is toys that have hinges where kids can trap their fingers or toes.

All toys and Christmas gifts should comply with the health and safety regulations of their respective countries, so next time youre buying gifts for her or him look out for the endorsement logos on the toys label first.