Gifting toys to children is a joyful tradition for many families over the holiday season. While there are many new and exciting toys for kids, it’s important to consider the potential hazards and risks before giving a toy to a child.
Buying Toys
The American Academy of Pediatrics suggests selecting toys to suit the age, abilities, skills and interest level of the child. Consider toys that will build developmental skills.
Be cautious about toys containing batteries or magnets. Children can have serious stomach, throat and intestinal problems or injuries, including death, after swallowing batteries or magnets. Immediately call your health care provider if your child swallows a battery or magnet.
Look for toys without small pieces when buying for a younger child. Young children can choke on small parts contained in toys or games. Remove all tags, strings, and ribbons (etc.) from toys before giving them to young children.
Receiving Toys
When your child receives a new toy as a present, read the label and instructions fully. Warning labels provide important information about appropriate ages and usage of a toy.
Show your child how to use the toy and never leave a child unsupervised with a new toy. Parents should store toys in a designated location, like an open shelf or in a bin, and keep older kids’ toys away from young children.
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission provides safety alert updates and guides for common children activities and toys.
From all of us at Merdes Law Office, we wish you a safe and happy holiday season.
The Merdes Law Office has been helping Alaskans for more than 30 years. And while we hope you never need us… We’re here if you do.
