‘Tis the season of giving! Children will be waking up to presents and toys this holiday season and it is important to consider safety issues when purchasing presents for the little ones. We all want a safe and jolly holiday season with friends and family. Parents should avoid toys with:
- sharp edges
- rough surfaces
- loose and removable parts
- long objects that can hurt the eyes
- small objects that can be swallowed i.e. marbles
- fast impact, elastic contraptions i.e. sling shot
- toys for older children but harmful to younger children (please read age specifications on toy package)
- toys that contain toxic liquids
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What are some toys that are suitable for those under 2 years old?
- child-sized household items like brooms, vacuums, rakes, lawn mowers, refrigerator and stove sets
- outside toys like sandboxes, kiddie pools, riding toys and backyard gyms and swings
- magnetic letters
- toy cash registers
Additionally, diligent parental supervision while toddlers open and play with their new presents is a must.
Also, some toys are simply not safe and may be recalled by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). For a list of toy recalls, call (800) 638-2772 or visit www.cpsc.gov. Remember, be safe and be merry this holiday season!
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