Dawn Lord, M.D. joined Kelsey-Seybold Clinic in 2000 and cares for patients at several Kelsey-Seybold Clinic locations. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics and completed her internship and residency at The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston. When she's not caring for patients, she has a full-time job as the proud mother of four boys.
By Dawn Lord, M.D., Pediatrics
As a pediatrician, I am acutely aware that toys are a very real part of a child's universe. Yet most children, and many adults, are uneducated regarding the world of dangerous toys.
Children spend much of their play time with these items, but don't know that some toys can cause them harm. They don't realize how many children are injured by toys.
Most children have no awareness of the poor standards that exist for pre-market safety testing of toys, in contrast to the rigid rules
that exist for food and drugs.
Safety First
I recommend first assessing a toy's risk when shopping. For example, if you have a toddler younger than 3 years, you should avoid marbles or toys containing them because of the choking risk posed. Also avoid toys with a strap or a string which can fit around a child's small neck. It could cause strangulation.
Toys containing a ball smaller than 1.75 inches can also pose a choking risk. Uninflated latex balloons, or pieces of broken latex balloons, can cause suffocation if placed in a child's mouth.
If you purchase a bike or scooter for your child, be sure to purchase a helmet and make certain your child wears it when riding.
Arts and crafts products and toy guns should also be carefully inspected by parents. The designation ASTM-D4236 on arts and crafts products indicates that the product has been reviewed by a toxicologist, or an expert in poisonous substances. Any known health hazards have been identified and are stated as such on the label. However, this designation does not necessarily mean that the product is non-toxic.
If you must purchase them, toy guns should be brightly colored so as not to be mistaken for the real thing.
Toy Story
After the holidays, parents should inspect a child's toys often to be sure the toys are still safe. Throw away the plastic wrapping and throw away or repair any broken toy, which may be a danger to your child in its compromised condition.
Teach your child how to pick up toys to prevent a fall, and store toys requiring adult supervision out of reach of children.
Electric Toys
These toys present many possible dangers if used improperly or without adequate adult supervision. Dangers include electric shock, burns, sharp edges and small parts which may break off and become choking hazards. Safety standards and regulations have reduced, but not eliminated, these risks. If you choose to purchase these toys, pay particular attention to the recommended ages as indicated on the toy's packing. Even a child who is considered smart, bright or advanced for his or her age will lack the common sense to always know when they are playing with an electric toy in a way that may put them in harm's way.
Crib Toys
Any toy that hangs across a crib, secured on both crib rails, should be taken down for an infant who has begun to push up on his knees. An infant can become entangled in this type of toy and choke.
BB Guns
Although they are not real rifles, BB guns are not a toy! They are responsible for countless injuries and an average of four deaths each year.
Toy Evaluation Checklist
A Guide to Safe Toy Shopping
Here is a handy checklist. (If you check off any of these, then avoid buying.)
Does the toy have any sharp edges that can cut someone?
Is the toy made of cheap or thin plastic that can easily splinter or break into shards? (Rule: Easily breakable toys are not suitable for young children.)
Is the toy poorly made, leaving ample opportunity for small pieces to be removed and swallowed or choked on? Is it a throwing toy with sharp points or spikes?
Is it a flying toy, a missile or a dart with any sharp points?
Is the toy right for the intended child's age? (Reading the package can assist you in making this determination.)
I hope this article will assist you in making safe toy choices.
For more information, visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at
http://www.cpsc.gov/ for recent product recalls and product safety news.