Age Appropriate Toys and Toy Safety For Babies
Buying new toys for your babies and toddlers can be a fun and exciting time for both of you.
There is something magical about the feel and smell of a new toy, not to mention the colors and texture which can be so appealing.
But while toys can be a great learning tool for your baby as well as a fun plaything, there are always safety considerations when it comes to small children and their toys.
Tiny Objects Children younger than three years old are notorious for popping small objects into their mouths.
There are age guidelines, usually on the front of the packaging on children's toys.
Most packages have a suggested age that a toy may be targeted for, but as parents and caretakers, we should always double check a toy to be sure it is safe for our babies and children.
Any toy which contains small balls, magnets, plastic pieces or detachable parts may pose a choking danger for your child, and thus should be avoided.
Any pieces that accompany or come attached to a toy should be too large to be swallowed.
Ribbon or String If a cord is longer than 10 inches or so, it can be long enough for a child to become entangled in.
A string can also become wrapped around a baby's neck, causing a choking hazard.
As soon as your child is able to move about more freely, remove any attached crib toys or hanging mobiles.
A couple of soft stuffed animals make fun crib-mates.
Be sure they are free of buttons or long pieces of yarn that your baby could pull off and put in his mouth.
Age Appropriate Toys Look for toys that have age recommendations on the box.
Most packages have a suggested age that a toy may be targeted for, but as parents and caretakers, we should always double check a toy to be sure it is safe for our babies and children.
It is important for babies to be able to interact with toys that are built for their age related motor skills and learning abilities.
Some age appropriate winners for toddlers are blocks, riding toys, balls, and toy musical instruments.
Sturdily Built Toys When investing in toys for your baby, do your homework.
Buy toys that are not easily broken, that will not pinch little fingers, and that have rounded, softer edges.
Make sure larger toys are not only sturdy, but size and weight appropriate for your little one; if it falls over or if your baby trips over it, the toy will not be too heavy for your baby's safety.
Toy strollers, grocery carts or lawnmowers are always a hit, and those toys are light and easy to maneuver.
Books Babies and toddlers love colorful books.
There are many age appropriate books that feature different materials and textures.
These books have doors and panels that are fun for little fingers to lift, open and close, and will delight your child for years to come!
There is something magical about the feel and smell of a new toy, not to mention the colors and texture which can be so appealing.
But while toys can be a great learning tool for your baby as well as a fun plaything, there are always safety considerations when it comes to small children and their toys.
Tiny Objects Children younger than three years old are notorious for popping small objects into their mouths.
There are age guidelines, usually on the front of the packaging on children's toys.
Most packages have a suggested age that a toy may be targeted for, but as parents and caretakers, we should always double check a toy to be sure it is safe for our babies and children.
Any toy which contains small balls, magnets, plastic pieces or detachable parts may pose a choking danger for your child, and thus should be avoided.
Any pieces that accompany or come attached to a toy should be too large to be swallowed.
Ribbon or String If a cord is longer than 10 inches or so, it can be long enough for a child to become entangled in.
A string can also become wrapped around a baby's neck, causing a choking hazard.
As soon as your child is able to move about more freely, remove any attached crib toys or hanging mobiles.
A couple of soft stuffed animals make fun crib-mates.
Be sure they are free of buttons or long pieces of yarn that your baby could pull off and put in his mouth.
Age Appropriate Toys Look for toys that have age recommendations on the box.
Most packages have a suggested age that a toy may be targeted for, but as parents and caretakers, we should always double check a toy to be sure it is safe for our babies and children.
It is important for babies to be able to interact with toys that are built for their age related motor skills and learning abilities.
Some age appropriate winners for toddlers are blocks, riding toys, balls, and toy musical instruments.
Sturdily Built Toys When investing in toys for your baby, do your homework.
Buy toys that are not easily broken, that will not pinch little fingers, and that have rounded, softer edges.
Make sure larger toys are not only sturdy, but size and weight appropriate for your little one; if it falls over or if your baby trips over it, the toy will not be too heavy for your baby's safety.
Toy strollers, grocery carts or lawnmowers are always a hit, and those toys are light and easy to maneuver.
Books Babies and toddlers love colorful books.
There are many age appropriate books that feature different materials and textures.
These books have doors and panels that are fun for little fingers to lift, open and close, and will delight your child for years to come!