Three often overlooked dangers of children's toys

When compiling a holiday wish list, kids don’t often stop to consider the possible safety risks of the toys they’re requesting. If you’ll be shopping for a child this holiday season, it’s crucial to note that not every toy may be safe for its pint-sized recipient.

While you’re probably already aware that sharp edges or long strings can pose a safety risk to young children, experts say there are many other guidelines that are more easily overlooked.

Toy toxicity

Steer clear of plastic toys that include phthalates and older toys made with unsafe materials. Before purchasing a used toy or passing one down from an older sibling, parents should check for worn out pieces, peeling paint, or other dangers.

“As recently as 10 years ago, the guidelines as to what constituted a safe toy were very different,” Morgan said. “Many materials and chemicals are not as safe as experts once believed they were." 

Age appropriateness

Parents shouldn’t purchase a toy thinking that their child will “grow into” it, says Sue Rzucidlo, a nurse practitioner with Penn State Pediatrics. In the case of a gift such as a bike, doing so can be dangerous as the child may not have the skills to control it.

Make sure the toy will support your child’s development by checking the age recommendation on its label. And if you are purchasing a bike or another gift on wheels, Rzucidlo recommends making protective gear part of the gift

Choking risk

If shopping for a child under the age of 3, watch out for choking hazards. These may be present on toys with small removable parts or those with concealed small parts, such as button batteries or small magnets.

For children under three, choose toys that are too big to fit through a toilet paper tube.