Pick the right toy

The Safe Toy!

By: ELANA PEARL BEN-JOSEPH,MD

Consider these additional statistics from the National SAFE KIDS Campaign:

There are millions of toys out there, and hundreds of new ones hit the store shelves each year. Toys are supposed to be fun and are an important part of any child's development. But it's sobering to learn that in In 2002, more than 212,000 children in the United States were treated in hospital emergency departments for toy-related injuries - and that 13 children died.

Toy manufacturers do follow certain guidelines and label most new toys for specific age groups. But perhaps the most important thing you can do - beyond reading labels and inspecting toys carefully - is to supervise your child during play.

Even though toy manufacturers are required to meet safety standards, some toys still may be improperly labeled or have some other unforeseen safety issue by the time they reach the store shelves. And most aren't recalled until a problem with the toy is reported. Despite the CPSC's best efforts, dozens of toys are still on its recall list because of safety concerns that were realized after the toys were already distributed to stores.

What toys are safe for your child?

Small children, especially toddlers, may look at plastic wrap as something new and fun to play with and put it into their mouths and choke. Holiday gift wrapping, ribbons, and bows can be hazards as well.

Whenever buying a new toy, always read labels to make sure the toy is appropriate for your child's age. The age-appropriate level for a toy is determined by safety factors.

Age-specific guidelines to keep in mind for children safety:

• Children 4 years old and younger account for almost half of all toy-related injuries and almost all deaths.
• Children younger than age 3 are at the greatest risk of choking because they tend to put objects - especially toys - in their mouths.
• Riding toys - including · bicycles and scooters - cause many injuries in children.
• Avoid toys with cords or long strings. These present a strangulation hazard to very young children, as cords or strings can get wrapped around the neck.
• Falls and choking cause most toy-related deaths and injuries in children. Choking alone causes one third of all toy-related deaths - most often from balloons.

Even though toy manufacturers are required to meet safety standards, some toys still may be improperly labeled or have some other unforeseen safety issue by the time they reach the store shelves. And most aren't recalled until a problem with the toy is reported. Despite the CPSC's best efforts, dozens of toys are still on its recall list because of safety concerns that were realized after the toys were already distributed to stores.

Whenever buying a new toy, always read labels to make sure the toy is appropriate for your child's age. The age-appropriate level for a toy is determined by safety factors.

Small children, especially toddlers, may look at plastic wrap as something new and fun to play with and put it into their mouths and choke. Holiday gift wrapping, ribbons, and bows can be hazards as well.

• Avoid buying toys intended for older children that may have small parts and pose a choking hazard.
• Be aware that balloons are a choking hazard for children up to the age of 8. Don't give your child uninflated or broken balloons. Inflated latex balloons present a choking hazard if they pop. If you want to use balloons at a child's party or celebration, don't let children blow up the balloons themselves, and be sure to deflate and put away all balloons afterward. Always supervise children while they play with balloons.
• BB guns or pellet rifles can kill - in fact, they cause about 4 deaths each year. Children younger than 16 years of age should not use these items.
• Electric toys must meet certain safety standards for construction and wiring. Adult supervision is always advisable with the use of any electric toys. Toys with heating elements are recommended only for children older than 8 years of age.

It's also important to keep toys clean. Some plastic toys can be cleaned in the dishwasher, although it's best to read the manufacturer's directions before you try this. Another option is to mix antibacterial soap or a mild dishwashing detergent and hot water in a spray bottle and use it to clean toys, rinsing them afterward.

And finally, keep in mind that the best products on the market are not necessarily the most expensive. Choose toys that inspire your child's imagination, and avoid those that promote violence, reinforce negative stereotypes, or limit your child's natural creativity.

The most important thing you can do to ensure your child's safety is to supervise your child while he or she is playing with a toy, even if the item is recommended for your child's age group. Remember that injuries to children can be prevented most of the time with the use of safe toys and proper supervision.

Playing with your child also gives you the opportunity to teach play safety while you're having fun and enjoying time together.