The formative early years of a child are the most crucial. During this time, their brains are the most active. They are constantly in search of stimulating and colourful items for engagement. Toys provide education and enjoyment. While children can take to any toys, few understand the role toys play in young lives. However, many parents have safety concerns since their children will perpetually be around them. Companies sell over three hundred billion toys in Australia annually. One should always turn to verified companies like Jellycat Australia for safety and quality. Read on to understand what to look for while purchasing these toys.
Think Soft:
All children tend to place toys in their mouths. Although toys like dolls and cars are fascinating, their sharp edges could injure the teeth and gums. Almost 10-30% of all toddlers and infants in Australia visit a medical professional to treat such injuries.
Opting for soft and fuzzy stuff toys can help you avoid such disasters. Moreover, their physical safety around soft toys is guaranteed.
Short Limbs:
While there are no sharp edges or breakable parts, soft toys can pose certain risks. Avoid purchasing dolls with long arms and legs. Children find new ways to play with their toys, and long appendages can be strangulation risks. Any arms, legs, or tails shouldn’t be able to cover the entire surface of your child’s neck.
No Plastic or Safe Plastic:
From baby bottles to teething cups, plastic is a prominent crafting material. However, not all plastic is environment and child-safe.
Phthalates and Bisphenol A are only a few of the toxic chemicals in the plastic production process. Research in Australia shows that these chemicals lead to hormonal disorders and other health issues.
To avoid a trip to the ER, try avoiding plastic toys entirely. Alternatively, purchase toys from verified brands like Jellycat Australia to ensure that the materials are 100% non-toxic and child-safe.
Age-Appropriate Toys:
Hobby kits and chemistry kits may seem exciting, stimulating, and educational. However, they may be toxic and harmful, even with supervision. Avoid buying such kits for children younger than 12 years of age.
Always Read the Labels:
The label gives you scores of information on the product. This information ranges from maintenance to product specifics.
In Australia, over 30% of all children present with early allergies. It is advisable to opt for hypoallergenic toy materials.
While handling stuff toys, regular washing and maintenance are crucial. However, incorrect washing can easily damage the toy. Read the label and follow the instructions for the best results.
Innovative Toys:
The toy industry is constantly designing new products for children. However, warnings only come up after incidents receive reporting after market introduction. To remain ultra-safe, avoid loud toys and those that shoot objects into the air. These projectiles can cause light yet critical injuries.
Supervision:
Toys like legos are the pillars of any childhood. However, these tiny parts are sturdy and plastic. They are susceptible to swallowing and can cause numerous health complications.
With children inhaling and swallowing toys, parent supervision is crucial. Stuff toys and softer dolls don’t require parental presence. They shouldn’t deprive their child of the stimulation toys such as legos. Instead, mark toys like those that require supervision.
Always Think Big:
Pediatricians and experts recommend purchasing more giant toys than your child’s mouth. Teething toys for infants are staples. Always ensure that the toy can never fit into a child’s mouth.
Moreover, while purchasing teething toys, ensure that they are sturdy enough.
