Choose New Toys Wisely and Maintain Older Toys
NEW ORLEANS - When you're making your list this year, be sure to check it twice for safety when purchasing toys for young children. Ochsner reminds everyone to read safety labels and follow appropriate age guidelines when buying this year's must-have toy. A few of the most dangerous hazards include those with small removable parts or marbles, magnets and balloons.
First and foremost, before purchasing a toy, Ochsner Pediatrician Dr. Judy Moreau, advises parents to research the toy's safety and then choose wisely keeping the following tips in mind:
• Ensure that the toy is lead-free
• Fabric toys should be labeled as flame resistant or flame retardant
• All paints or markers should be non-toxic
• Noise-making toys should not be too loud
• Carefully inspect any second-hand items before gifting
And it's not just the toys that could pose a problem. According the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, when it comes to the paper, boxes and bows, heed the following advice:
• Immediately discard plastic wrappings on toys as they could become suffocation hazards
• Pay close attention to instructions and warnings on battery chargers or electronic toys
• Keep toys appropriate for older children away from younger siblings
"It's also a good idea for parents to supervise or join their child when playing with a new toy in order to teach the child the correct way to play with the toy and ensures they can safely handle the new item," explains Dr. Moreau.
Since children can be rough on toys, as parents are making room for new items, now's the time to use the opportunity to inspect older toys to ensure:
• They aren't broken, which could become a danger to the child
• Older wooden toys for splinters
• Inspecting outdoor toys for signs of rust or decay
• All toys are properly clean
Finally, says Dr. Moreau, "With recent news about the spread of H1N1, it is a good idea to wash the children's toys regularly to help prevent the spread of germs," says Moreau. She says, plastic toys can be washed in the dishwasher in accordance with the manufacturer's guidelines or parents can use a mixture of antibacterial soap or mild dishwashing detergent with hot water. Just make sure to rinse the toys afterwards.
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