It can be difficult to choose gifts for babies and toddlers, especially if you don’t have children yourself. Although shoppers typically try to find engaging and entertaining gifts for the wee ones in their lives, it’s really more important that gifts that are safe for children. Just because a product is on the shelf at our local toy store or retail chain, that doesn’t mean that it’s safe or appropriate for the baby on your list. There are several guidelines you can use when searching for toys that will bring joy to kids and keep them out of harm’s way.  

First of all, pay attention to the recommended age limit listed on gifts. Those recommendations are there for a reason. Although not all children mature at the same rate, the guidelines listed take into account the abilities of typical children. If you stray too far from these recommendations, you run the risk that the toy isn’t safe OR engaging for the child you are shopping for.  

Likewise, you also want to make sure that the child is physically ready for the toy you are choosing. The ride along toy might look adorable in the store, but it might be too ambitious for your 2 year old nephew and he’ll only hurt himself or become frustrated with the toy you’ve chosen. The weight of the toy should also be taken into consideration.  It is possible for the toy to fall over onto the child and hurt him? Also, if the child is able to pull the toy onto himself, then it might be considered a danger to him.   

Another hazard that is really common in toys is the choking hazard. Toys that have small parts or pieces should be kept on the shelf until the child is old enough to know not to put things in their mouth. Toys that appear to have parts that could be chewed or pulled off should be avoided altogether. Toys should be well put together so as not to have parts that might disintegrate over time. A common example of disintegrating is when plastic or painted toys begin chipping off. If a toy is sewn correctly and manufactured correctly, it should have a long lifespan.  

Lately, a big concern among parents has been toys that have strings or cords. Children have been known to become strangled on these hazards. Also, magnets have been identified as posing a danger as well. If one magnet is swallowed, it is a choking concern- if two magnets are swallowed, they could become attracted to each other causing many health issues, including the possibility of death.  

Although it is an economical decision to shop at second hand stores or websites like craigslist.com, there can be dangers associated with purchasing toys that might not be up to current safety standards. Conduct your research on toys you purchase or plan to purchase that are not new. There are a few reliable websites that you can refer to if you are concerned about the safety or appropriateness of a toy. Babycenter.com has a recall locater that can help you determine if products have been recalled. Also, Healthytoys.org is a great resource for parents and family members looking for safe toys for the children in their lives. Uncover more ideas for unique baby gifts.