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Be careful with toys for kids
Dec 06, 2004 | 210 views | 0 0 comments | 2 2 recommendations | email to a friend | print
Unwrapping gifts Christmas morning can become unpleasant if the toys children are getting aren't appropriate.

"Young children get frustrated with toys and games not suited to their physical or mental capabilities," said Erika Kravic, R.N., Children's Hospital Foundation Office of Child Advocacy of Kosair Children's Hospital.

"And some toys can have parts that are dangerous for a younger child," she added.

Kravic listed four criteria for toys and games:

  • Well-constructed, durable and safe for the child's age

  • Suited for the physical abilities of the child

  • Appealing and interesting to the child

  • Suited to the child's mental and social development

    It isn't easy. Kravic said that even innocent-looking toys, such as marbles and balloons, can present dangers to children.

    Often, toy buyers don't read labels that provide information on ages. There are several things to avoid when buying toys for a child:

  • No toys with small removable parts

  • No toys with sharp points or edges

  • No toys with strings, straps or cords longer than seven inches

  • No toy cap guns, because the roll of caps can be ignited by the slightest friction and cause serious burns.

    Age appropriate toys are important, too, Kravic said:

    Newborn to 1 -- Toys that appeal to a baby's sight, hearing and touch.

    1- to 2-year-olds -- Must withstand a toddler's curious nature (stacking toys, sturdy dolls).

    3- t0 5-year-olds -- Experimental toys or those imitating parents and older children.

    5- to 9-year-olds -- Toys that promote skill development and creativity.

    10- to 14-year-olds -- Scientific toys or those encouraging hobbies.
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