All in a child’s world

Christmas is coming and many have already started stocking up on presents. Toys must be among the most common gifts bought over the festive season. Children play, and play is not risk-free but carers can control most of the hazards children are exposed to. Toys must be safe by law but how they are used and the age of the child are very important factors in preventing accidents. Toy safety is only part of the problem in that many accidents involving toys occur when children or adults trip over them and when smaller children play with toys intended for older children.

European Directive 88/378/EEC describes the essential safety requirements regarding general principles including design, construction and composition and also particular risks and hazards that may arise from the use of toys, and these include: physical and mechanical properties of toys, flammability, chemical properties, electrical properties, hygiene and radioactivity.

A toy is defined as “any product or material designed or clearly intended for use in play by children of less than 14 years of age” but does not include such items as children’s fashion jewellery or Christmas decorations. Third parties, as well as the actual users of toys, must be protected against health hazards and physical injury when the toy is used as intended. This places responsibility on manufacturers to anticipate how their products will be used and to take action at the design stage to prevent injury being caused through foreseeable use, and even misuse! However, although illegal, unsafe toys can still be found on sale so it is crucial to shop with care. Look out for the mandatory European Community (CE) symbol. This is a claim by the manufacturer that the toy meets the requirements of the EC Toy Safety Directive. It is also wise to shop from suppliers with a good reputation for safe and reliable toys. And if buying toys from a jumble sale or car boot sale, extra care needs to be taken.

Toy suitability is very, very important. Some children, particularly those under three, are more vulnerable, particularly to choking, and less able to cope with particular toys than older children. It should also be remembered there will be significant differences in the abilities of those in the same age group and those children with special needs. In general, avoid:

• Toys with loose pile fabric or hair which sheds easily, presenting a choking hazard;

• Toys with small components or parts which detach on which a child could choke;

• Toys with sharp points and edges or finger traps;

• Loose ribbons on toys and long neck ties on children’s costumes;

• Small toys sold with items of food.

Toys should be checked periodically to see that they have not become dangerously worn, revealing sharp points and edges or filling materials. Dispose of them if they are no longer safe, or if they are a particular favourite with the child, then have the toy properly repaired.

With some toys it is important to supervise children during play at all ages, e.g. chemistry sets. The instructions must be observed and should warn you about all the hazards and how to avoid or control them.

Encourage children to play with one toy at a time, to be tidy and put toys away after play. This applies whether at home or at school or playgroup. Many accidents are caused by people tripping over toys left lying around, particularly on staircases. Many toys are nowadays battery-powered but problems can occur with incorrect use and care.

The following are specific points by age of child:

Under three years

Children under three tend to put everything in their mouths. It is important to avoid buying toys intended for older children which may have small parts that pose a choking danger.

Avoid marbles, balls, and games with balls that have a diameter of 2cm or less. These products also pose a choking hazard to young children.

Children at this age pull, prod and twist toys. Look for toys that are well-made with tightly secured eyes, noses and other parts.

Avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.

Three to five years

Avoid toys that are constructed with thin, brittle plastic that might easily break into small pieces or leave jagged edges.

Look for household art materials, including crayons and paint sets, which are non-toxic.

Teach older children to keep their toys away from their younger brothers and sisters.

Six to 12 years

For all children, adults should check toys periodically for breakage and potential hazards. Damaged or dangerous toys should be repaired or thrown away.

If buying a toy gun, be sure the barrel, or the entire gun, is brightly coloured so that it’s not mistaken for a real gun.

If you buy a bicycle for any age child, buy a helmet too, and make sure the child wears it.

Teach all children to put toys away when they’re finished playing so they don’t trip over them or fall on them.

Source: Weekender, December 6, 2008