December is Toy Safety Month

December is Toy Safety Month and with the holiday season in full swing, here are a few tips to help you select safe and suitable toys for those on your list:                       

• Choose toys that are appropriate for the age of the child. Look for labels to judge which toys may not be safe, especially for infants and children under age three.
• For childen of all ages, consider if the toys are suited for their skills and abilities.
• Look for toys that have solid and sturdy construction.
• Read the labels to see if their are any potential fire hazards.
• Look for labels to see if the toy has passed a safety inspection - ASTM means the toy has met the American Society for Testing and Materials standards.
• Do not choose toys with small parts and sharp edges/points, crayons and markers that are NOT labeled nontoxic, toys with ropes/cords, or electric toys with heating elements.

Chosing Toys for Children with Special Needs:

• Choose toys that appeal to the senses - sound, movement, texture.
• Consider interactive toys that allow the child to play with others.
• Think about what size the toy is and what position the child would need to be in to play with it.
• Determine if the toy can be adapted to different kinds of play in different situations - can it be played with alone and also with other children?

For toy safety shopping tips, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission at: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Guides/Toys/

For toy hazard recalls, visit: http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Recalls/

The Arc of Orleans County wishes you and yours a happy and safe holiday season!