|
Shopping and selecting that perfect toy for your child can be both an exhilarating and confusing experience. With literally thousands of toys available for every age group, and many more about to hit the stores, how does a parent choose a safe and entertaining toy for their child?
There are several factors that you must take into consideration when purchasing toys. Firstly, and perhaps the most crucial recommendation is to make sure it is safe and appropriate for the age of the child. Fortunately, this job is made a little easier with the help of the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) which oversees safety regulations for children’s toys and other products. While this commission monitors toy safety, it is still the parent’s responsibility to ensure that the toy is appropriate for their child. This is especially important for children under the age of 3 who may put items in their mouths, creating a choking hazard. Therefore, when selecting toys for infants and toddlers, ensure that they contain oversized pieces that meet U.S. safety specifications. When shopping for stuffed animals and dolls, make sure the seams are well sealed. Eyes, noses, buttons, ribbons and other decorations should be securely fastened so that they cannot be pulled, bitten, or chewed off. When selecting toys that contain arrows or darts for older children, be sure that they have blunt rubber, flexible tips, plastic suction cups, or cork rather than any sharp pointed ends. Toys that require electricity should not be purchased for children under eight years of age since the heating components can cause injury if not used in the proper manner.
Another aspect to take into consideration in toy selection is getting the most for your money. Choose toys that can not only be enjoyed now, but at different ages and developmental levels. The ideal toy is one that your child will enjoy over time and perhaps use in conjunction with other toys for more complex play in years to come. It should hold your child’s interest and continue to be a source of entertainment. Avoid purchasing toys that can only be used one way as this will lead to boredom and frustration after a short amount of time. Also stay clear of toys that promote violence and aggression.
While the toy should be affordable, age appropriate, and well designed, it should also be fun for the child. The child should feel relaxed and entertained when using it. Ideally, the toy should educate as it entertains and encourage independent thinking and imagination. The product should help your child express their emotions and spur creativity. Make sure that you do not choose a toy that is too advanced for the child as it will only lead to frustration and not be used at all. When reading labels to decide which toys to buy, keep in mind that not all children develop alike. Children of the same age will have varying levels of ability and maturity. Know the skill level and interests of the child to avoid purchasing inappropriate toys for them.
Finally, you will want to take an inventory of what your child already has, and what they may be ready to handle. Give your child the opportunity to tell you what they really want. Selecting and purchasing the right toys for the right reasons will make your children safer and happier all year round.
|
| |
