Keeping your child entertain is a challenge in itself. Finding educational toys that encourages learning and stimulates growth is what any parent wants for their child. With recalls occurring more frequently, how do parents know what their purchasing is safe? Even though the toys being imported into USA and Canada are heavily regulated, it is still the job of the parent to inspect the toys that they purchase. Reputable toy companies such as Toys R’ Us have weekly flyers that let you know when popular toys go on sale; but usually it would require a subscription.
Here are a few general guidelines:
• Toys with fabric and/ or stuffed should be labelled flame resistant and machine washable
• Try to avoid painted toys, but if purchased make sure the label states painted with lead free paint
• Is the toy suitable for the age of your child
• Toys should be bigger than the child’s mouth, especially if the child is under the age of 3
• The weight of the toy
• Is the toy well put together
• Are there sharp corners or edges
• Does the toy come with any ropes, plastic restraints, or cords
• The condition of the toys
• Children like colourful and noise making toys
• Try to avoid hand-me-down toys ( they may be filled with dust and other micro-organisms, or may not be up to today’s code)
Make sure to purchase toys from companies that you recognise and trust. If you still have doubts you can check out the Canadian Toy Testing Council. They test hundreds of toys and produce annual reports for the best and safe toys. All results are posted on their website.
Below are some websites to check out, make sure to do your research!
http://toy-testing.org/
http://www.cbc.ca/news/yourcommunity/2011/11/what-do-you-look-for-when-buying-toys.html
http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/hl-vs/iyh-vsv/prod/toys-jouets-eng.php
Happy Buying
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