Children, especially those with special needs, depend on adults to provide them with safe forms of entertainment. According to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission, hospitals treated an estimated 206,400 toy-related injuries. That's why December, the month of giving, is designated Safe Toys and Gifts Month: to ensure that parents and caregivers understand how to choose safe toys for the children who rely on them.
Understanding Safe Toys
While nobody can account for every possibility, a safe toy on its own shouldn't pose a hazard when played with. Features that make for "unsafe" children's toys include:
- Small parts: This includes toys with detachable pieces, doll shoes and accessories, small blocks, marbles, loose batteries, and even balloons and balloon fragments.
- Sharp edges: Sharp edges present another potential safety hazard.
- Easily breakable materials: Even if a toy doesn't come with small parts or sharp edges, they can be created if the material breaks easily. Weak plastic, glass, or thin wood can break during rough play, which can lead to your child cutting themselves or choking on newly created small pieces.
- Toxic materials: Paints, glue, and other craft supplies can be toxic when ingested.
- Loose strings, ribbons, or stuffing: Even stuffed animals can pose a hazard. Loose strings and ribbons can lead to strangulation, while weak seams and easily removed stuffing can lead to choking if a child were to ingest it.
Safe Toys for Kids
With the amount of toys available on the market, shopping for safe toys can seem overwhelming. Here's how to choose safe children's toys while shopping this holiday season:
Avoid Dangerous Features
First and foremost, avoid the dangerous features listed above. Don't buy toys with small or toxic parts, sharp edges, loose ribbons or stuffing, or ones made of easily broken materials. Remember: when it comes to children's toys, it's better to be safe than sorry. You can always purchase the toy for them when they're older.
Check Labels
Many toys come with recommended age ranges on the labels. These labels indicate that the toy is safe and generally suitable for children in that age range. Certain kinds of toys will have additional labels to indicate they meet industry safety standards for that niche. For example, safe toys with electric components will have a UL label, meaning they meet safety regulations.
Consider the Child's Needs
Aside from general safety, you should also consider whether or not a toy is well-suited to the child you're planning to give it to. Are they allergic to any chemicals or materials that would normally be safe for a child? Do they have sensory issues that might make them dislike certain textures, scents, or sounds? Do they have poor eyesight and require larger text and pictures?
Remember Toy Maintenance
As toys wear out, they may become hazardous to children. You should check your child's toys periodically to ensure they aren't broken. Repair or replace broken toys to ensure child safety. Be sure to clean them according to the manufacturer's recommendations as well — children can be messy, after all!
Special Needs and Sensory Toys
Toys should be more than just safe — they should also entertain a child and help them to develop. Sensory toys are designed to stimulate and develop a child's five senses, thinking skills, and problem-solving skills. They often feature bright colors, varied textures, and sound-making capabilities. While these toys are suitable for all children, they're especially beneficial for neurodivergent children, such as those with autism or ADHD. Some common sensory toys include:
- Fidget spinners
- Kinetic sand, slime, or putty
- Rainmaker toys
- Sensory mats
- Crinkle books
- Activity cubes
Note that each child, and especially each neurodivergent child, is different. If you're unsure of which toys they'd prefer, don't be afraid to experiment — just make sure the toys are safe!
What to do in a Toy-Related Choking Emergency
No matter how many precautions you take, accidents can still occur. If you see a child choking on a toy fragment (or on any other foreign object), here's what to do:
1. Check that the Child is Choking
First, check to make sure that the child is choking by asking them. If they're able to speak, then their airway isn't obstructed. If they nod, gag, or are only capable of nonverbal sounds of distress, they're most likely choking.
2. Have Someone Call 911
If someone else is with you, have them call 911 and stay on the line while you carry out the next steps. Not only does this ensure help will come as soon as possible, but they can also keep the operator informed on the child's condition. If the child passes out at any point, have them tell the operator immediately.
If you're alone with the child: prioritize emergency procedures first. If possible, shout for help as you perform the below steps. If someone arrives, have them call 911.
3. Perform the Heimlich Maneuver
Stand behind the child and wrap your arms around their waist. Make a fist with one hand, hold it tightly with your other, and position it slightly above the navel. Quickly pull up and towards yourself in a sharp upward thrust. Repeat until the object is expelled.
If an infant is choking: place them face down on your forearm and hold their jaw with your hand. Use the heel of your other hand to thump them five times between the shoulder blades. Repeat until the object is expelled.
4. Take the Child to a Doctor
Once you've dislodged the object, take the child to a doctor as soon as possible. Even if they seem okay, it's possible that the object caused internal damage, or that a piece broke off and remains in the child's lungs. Only a doctor can assess the damage and determine whether or not the child is safe.
Arnot Health: Quality Care for All Ages
If you're looking for a reliable primary care provider for you and your children, look no further than Arnot Health. We offer a variety of services, including specialized services such as cancer care and heart care, as well as walk-in care for sudden emergencies. Whether it's you or your child, you can rest easy knowing your medical care is in good hands. Contact Arnot Health today and find a provider near you.
