As parents we take pains in making our kids healthy and safe, we watch they eat, give them proper medical attention and where they go. But when we leave them alone to play with their toys, how sure are we that they are truly safe?
In the U.K., the statistics shows that an average of 40,000 accidents each year is caused by unsafe toys. In 2005, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s National Electronic Injury Surveillance System reported that 20 children under 15 years old died in incidents associated with unsafe toys, and an estimated 202,300 children under 15 were treated in U.S. hospital emergency room for injuries and incidents involving toys.
There are ways to choose toys that are safe but are still fun and at the same time educational for kids to play. Here are age-by-age guide to toy safety:
For 0 to 12 Months
Safe toys for babies in the first 12 months are toys made of soft washable materials. It should not have small parts that can be removed, and should not be paint-coated.
Recommended Toys: Baby items play set that allows them to practice their grasping reflexes and feel the different textures. Toys that make soft jingling sounds fascinate infants as do colorful and boldly patterned toys. Mini gyms and play mats are also recommended as the babies begin to explore.
