Five Ways To Choose Age Appropriate Toys

One only has to walk into the toy section of any department store or gift shop and there is a sense of excitement in the air. However before you fill your shopping cart with toys and rush off to the check out, take a moment to make sure that the gifts you’ve selected are suitable for his/her age.

Reports from the Consumer Product Safety Commission reveal that last year 140,700 children visited hospital emergency rooms for toy related injuries. It was also reported that thirteen children also died. Toys that were supposed to bring happiness brought grief and sorrow.

Choosing age appropriate toys is perhaps the best way to prevent toy related tragedies during the holiday season or at any other time of the year. Here are five ways to choose age suitable toys for your child…

· This may seem obvious but read the labels, to ascertain the recommended age for the particular toy. For example toys marked not recommended for children under three often have small parts that can easily become choking hazards for infants and toddlers.

· Soft stuffed animals, squeaky bath toys, and large, colorful balls are excellent gifts for children from 1 month to 1 year. However make sure that these toys are washable and non-toxic. Also make sure that there are no small parts like eyes on the stuff toys that can come loose and become choking hazards.

· Always pay close attention to the quality of the toys you are purchasing. Make sure there are no broken parts or sharp edges read the contents on the label to make sure the toys are not coated with any toxic substance for example Paints containing lead.

· The older children get the more mobile they become gifts such as bikes and skates are appropriate for those ranging from age 3-6. When these gifts are chosen make sure to also select the necessary safety equipment like helmets, kneepads and elbow guards.

· Last but not least make sure toys are not too heavy, a child definitely could get hurt if a toy fell on him or her.

Remember toys are more than just entertainment there are a fundamental part of your child’s physical and social development. So no matter what toys you choose for your child make sure that safety is high on your list of priorities.

And the best way to guarantee your child will have a fun, interesting, and safe childhood is to buy age-appropriate toys for the holidays, birthdays and other special occasions.

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Based on the popular TV series the site provides opportunities to
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