HOW TO CREATE A CHILD-FRIENDLY CHRISTMAS

Before you buy that toy for your child, here are some safety measures for you to consider

Selecting a toy
Do not buy toys for a child who is too young to use them safely. Always check the age recommendation on the package. Remember that this is a minimum age recommendation. If a toy is labelled “Not Recommended for Children under 8 Years of Age,” this does not mean that every child who is 8 years old is mature enough to operate it. The buyer must still take into account the individual child’s maturity.

Manufacturer's instructions
Read the instructions accompanying the product carefully and then read them with the child who will be using the product. Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation. Be sure that the child knows how to use the items safely, understands all the instructions and warning labels, and is aware of the hazards of mis-using the toy. The instructions should be kept with the toy or in a safe place where they can be found easily.

The hazards of electronic toys
Electronically operated products intended for use by children may become extremely hazardous if improperly used, used without supervision, or not properly designed or constructed. The possible dangers are many and include: burns, especially if the product has a heating element; a wide variety of mechanical hazards common to toys in general, such as sharp edges and dangerous moving parts.

Supervision
Supervise the use of electronic toys. Be sure that the plug of an electrical product fits snugly into wall outlets or (if they must be used) extension cord receptacles. To prevent electrical shock, no prongs should be exposed. Teach children always to disconnect an electric appliance after use by grasping the plug, not by pulling on the cord. Keep infants and toddlers out of the area in which an electric toy is being used.

Maintenance and disposal
Deterioration of electrically operated toys can present many hazards, therefore, check on their condition periodically. Be alert for broken parts, frayed cords and damage to enclosures of wiring and other protected components. Only an adult or responsible older child should replace a light bulb in an electric toy, as it is extremely important that the replacement bulb be of an acceptably low wattage and that the plug is disconnected when the change is made. Any product that has been so severely damaged, that adequate repairs cannot be made, should be discarded immediately.

Important reminders
Children under three years of age tend to put everything in their mouths. Avoid buying toys intended for older children, which may have small or detachable parts that may pose a possible danger in choking. Buy only toys that are well made and have tightly secured parts, because children are inclined to pull, prod and twist toys.
   Never let children of any age play with deflated or burst balloons because of the risk of choking.
Avoid marbles, balls and games with balls that have a diameter of 1.75 inches or less. These products also pose a choking hazard to young children.
Avoid toys that have sharp edges and points.