Family Tips

Explain your child that he or she should toys away and keep them out of the younger children. Many kids receive injuries when they fall over toys, when younger children might choke on small parts or hurt themselves with sharp points of toys that are intended for older kids.
Parents should check toys regularly to control if they are damaged or pose a danger. Throw away broken toys or repair them at once. Wooden toys should be scrutinized for splinters. Check outdoor toys and bicycles for rust, weakened or broken parts.
Toy boxes and containers should be checked for safety, too. It is better to store toys in open, plastic crates or on low shelving units. If you use a toy box with a lid, make sure the lid will stay open when raised and will not fall suddenly on your child. Take away any free-falling lids from your child’s playing area.
With toys for older kids or hand-me-downs, make certain that painted surfaces don’t contain lead.
Toys that are used outdoors should be stored properly when children do not play with them. Remember that previously safe toy could become dangerous if damaged or rusted by long exposure to moisture from rain or snow.
It’s also very important to keep toys clean. Some toys can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher or washing machine, but it’s best to read the manufacturer’s directions before trying this.