Baby Stella   Doll
$29.99
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Zoobmobile Car Designer
$39.99
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Twig
$54.99
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The recommended age on a toy is a great place to start when choosing a toy. Recommended ages are regulated but these are guidelines and each child's abilities should be considered as well. Some older children may still put non-food items in their mouths. It's also a good idea to remember the age of your youngest child. Once you bring a toy home, there is always the possibility that they will have access to it. Also, look for toys with quality design and construction. Avoid toys with small parts for younger children as they may pose a choking hazard.

Checking toys often for wear and tear is a good idea. Inspect toys for broken pieces, sharp edges, loose parts or chipped paint. If you discover any damaged toys, throw them away. It is especially important to inspect any toys that are in cribs, strollers or playpens to make sure they are securely attached and do not have any loose pieces.

Another way to keep toys safe is to make sure they are clean, especially during cold and flu season. Some plastic toys are dishwasher safe, but other toys can be cleaned with an antibacterial soap and rinsed with water. Make sure when purchasing plush or stuffed toys that they are washable as well.

Toys that are battery operated should always have the batteries replaced by an adult. All batteries should be replaced with fresh batteries. Mixing different types of batteries can cause over heating or leaking, which could potentially result in injury. When you change batteries, it is also a good idea to inspect the battery compartment to ensure it is not broken and that children cannot open it.

There are also a few things to keep in mind while choosing a storage solution for your child's toys. Find a toy box without a lid or a lid that is lightweight to remove the possibility of your child being hurt if it falls on them. Also, consider a toy box that has air holes in case your child decides that the toy box is a toy itself and climbs inside. Airtight storage boxes increase the risk of suffocation if your child climbs inside. Teaching children to put toys away when they are done playing with them keeps toy from being stepped on or tripped over, reducing the risk of injury as well as damage to the toy.

Store outdoor toys like bicycles and scooters inside over the winter. The quality of toys that are left outside and are exposed to the elements may degrade and may become unsafe. These toys may rust and should be inspected every spring before use. Springtime is also the perfect time to inspect protective equipment like helmets, knee or elbow pads and wrist guards for wear and tear.

The most important thing you can do to ensure the toys your child is playing with are safe is to supervise play time and be aware of how your child is playing with their toys. Keep a close eye on the condition of toys and inspect them often. Safe toys are an essential ingredient for rewarding play and play is what children do best.

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