Toy Safety: Children (6 to 9 Years)

Not all toy hazards can be detected, nor can any toy be completely safe for all children at all times. The unique combination of child, toy, and the way the child uses the toy determines the safety risk. The best safety features of any toy include suitability of the toy to the child's age and abilities, and supervision of the child's play by an alert adult. Although reputable toy companies try to make their toys as safe as possible, the responsibility for your child's play safety resides ultimately with you.

Accidents are most likely to occur when:

• The toy is too large or complicated for your child's development.
• There is an absence of responsible adult supervision.
• The toy is misused, damaged, or cheaply constructed.
• A younger sibling or playmate plays with the toy.

Toy Safety Checklist

• The toy is not too heavy for your child's strength.
• The toy is well-constructed. (A poorly made toy can break or come apart, easily exposing hazards like wires or springs.)
• The toy does not have sharp edges that can cut or scratch.
• There are no pointed objects your child can fall on.
• All moving parts are securely attached.
• A broken toy is repaired or thrown away.
• Indoor toys remain indoors so they do not rust.
• All riding toys are well-constructed and well-balanced.
• Toys made with cloth carry the labels "flame resistant", "flame retardant", or "nonflammable".

Suggested Play Materials

• Sand box and sand toys
• Construction sets
• Art materials: crayons, chalk, paint, modeling clay, simple weaving materials
• Chalkboard, flannel board
• Dolls from other countries
• Small bicycle, wagon
• Jump rope
• Costume dress-up box
• Simple board games
• Paper doll sets
• Puppets (store-bought or homemade)
• Playhouse
• Puzzles
• Kite
• Globe
• Magnet
• Magnifying glass
• Lock with key
• Aquarium
• Terrarium
• Books