Archive for February, 2011
What You Must Consider in Choosing a Toy
February 10th, 2011 >> Kid's Health
Kids find toys a great need. You may also find it helpful when comforting your child who is in tantrums or just to keep him busy while you do household chores. However, the smallest of these toys can even cause a greater danger. This explains why it is vital that you keep an eye on your child as he plays with toys that have detachable small parts. Better play with him instead, this can be a sort of bonding with your kid.
Safety First
When choosing a toy to buy, consider the safety of your child first. A toy may be on trend, colorful and attractive just like how toys usually look but think of the possible dangers they may cause. Family physicians recommend that you consider the basics in toy safety.
Sharp-Edged Toys
Though toys are usually made of plastics, it may have rough and sharp edges that may cut your child’s delicate skin. Take time to check on the toys before you place them in your cart right away. It is not only a small wound on the hands that you want to prevent but also injuries on more delicate body parts like the eyes.
Keep The Wrong Toys Out of the Toddler’s Reach
A certain toy must be age-appropriate. Toys intended for bigger kids must be placed in boxes that the toddlers won’t find or get hold of. A badminton racket must be seen hanging on the wall rather than placed scattered on the floor. Your little kid might hurt himself with it and even his playmates.
Choose the Sturdy Toys
Kids are experimental even in playing with their toys. They love removing the small parts and see what happens next when they do so until their toys become ruined and go straight to the trash. Pick the sturdy ones or those that do not have small parts that can cause choking. Little kids love to place something inside their mouth. There are a large number of cases of choking among this age group. Also, avoid those toys that have loose ribbons and strings that may get tangled around your child’s neck.
Buy What is Age-Appropriate
Toys are labeled to what age group they are most suitable. This will help prevent the dangers of choking and injuries among your little kids. Also, the developmental stage is a consideration in choosing a toy. For example, a toddler at the age of one can’t tow a big cart and a 4 year-old kid won’t be interested in playing rattles anymore. It is also important that precaution be made in choosing shooting objects or toys and those that are electrically operated. Read the label and educate yourself about articles on a kid’s developmental stages that discuss what toy fits certain age group such as toddlers and pre-schoolers.
Choose Non-toxic and Washable Toys
Little kids, especially toddlers, have this urge to put things inside their mouth. This explains why it is important that toys are maintained clean and free from dirt. Lead-containing toys must also be avoided to prevent its toxic effects to your child. Lead toxicity may be affect brain development and can even cause kidney disease.