Play

Choosing New Toys

Children love to play! Using safe toys helps keep your child safe. When choosing new toys, read labels and packaging to be sure:

1. Fabric toys are flame resistant or flame retardant.
2. Stuffed toys are washable.
3. Painted toys are made with lead-free paint.
4. Art materials (such as glue or paint) are nontoxic.
5. Crayons and paint packaging have the phrase ASTM D-4236, which shows that the toy has been evaluated by the American Society for Testing and Materials.

Two more tips for toy safety:

1. Protect your child’s hearing by choosing toys that aren’t too loud.
2. Offer “screen free zones”, which include no screen time for children 0 to 2 years old. 

Age-Specific Toys

Many toys come with suggestions for how old a child should be to play with them.

These guidelines can help you understand:

1. If your child is ready for the toy (e.g., puzzles with many pieces).
2. If the toy is safe for your child (e.g., toys with parts that could be swallowed)

Guidelines for finding good toys for infants, toddlers, and preschoolers:

1. Toys should be large enough (about 1¼ inches by 2¼ inches) to prevent choking.
2. Avoid marbles, coins, balls, and games with balls that are small.
3. Battery-operated toys should have protected battery cases that children can’t open on their own.
4. Toys should be strong and unbreakable.
5. Riding toys have specific instructions. Be sure children follow them carefully.
6. Free toys, or toys sold at fairs and carnivals, may not meet safety standards. Check them for safety before sharing them with your child.