Thank you The Toy Association for sponsoring this post. Keeping kids safe while they play is the #1 priority for The Toy Association and its members.
Tis the season! I honestly can’t believe the time of year has come when we are making our gift lists and checking it twice! I do love this time of year and it’s probably my favorite time of year to shop as the stores are full of festivity and life… the gift options are endless and for the most part everyone seems to be in a happy mood, right?
Usually, I find that this time of year is when I find some of the most unique gifts and toys. When buying for my own preschooler and of course my nieces and nephews it’s so much fun finding these types of gifts and toys.
Through learning more with The Toy Association, some simple things to keep in mind when shopping for toys. As I’ve educated myself, I want to also share these safety tips with you.
A few things to keep in mind when purchasing toys this holiday season – hopefully you’ll use these tips as a little checklist for you as you shop this coming season!
1 Throwback Toys – A popular trend this year! Throwback toys can be iconic toys, games and even characters that have a bit of nostalgia for the parents purchasing for their own kids. I do love seeing my little one play with toys as I did – the memories can be so vivid that I want her to experience the same joy as I did!!! Just make sure that these toys are legitimate before purchasing, since counterfeit or imitation toys are sometimes sold online, and they have the potential to be unsafe. Always check that the seller is verified and legitimate by taking the time to dig deeper into their history (read reviews, check if they have a real website with a mission statement, etc.) This little bit of time will pay off in the end, since toys sold by responsible and legitimate sellers are tested to more than 100 strict US safety standards and tests! Want more tips and advice visit PlaySafe.org
2 Unboxing Toys – We’ve all seen the thrill and fun associated with kids unboxing a toy all while discovering a surprise within the package! Check the label on the toy packaging and follow the recommended age for your kids. Avoid toys with small parts for kids under the age of 3 (or kids who still put every toy in their mouth!!) since they can present choking hazards. The age grading on the toy package is always based on safety and not how smart a child may be, trust the experts!
3 Organize Toys – Separate and organize toys within your home if you have multiple children. Keep older children’s toys, which may contain small pieces, out of reach from younger siblings and their friends.
4 Supervise – Get down on the floor and play with your kids! Always demonstrate to them how to use a new toy and how to properly play with it – this way they can safely enjoy it and you will have peace of mind knowing they have been taught! Always supervise your children while they play. Looking for more toy safety tips →visit PlaySafe.org.
5 Popular Toys – The popular toys that are inspired by characters from this year’s most popular movies are always on kids’ gift lists! Of course, as parents, we try to get what our child wants and is on their list to spark that joy for them when opening the gift… remember though if you find a good deal, sometimes a deal too good to be true isn’t always the best buy, safety comes first. Make sure these popular toys aren’t imitations. Toys sold by legitimate and known sellers are tested for compliance with the U.S.’s strict toy safety standard.
Lastly, while you’re shopping this holiday season, remember that just because a toy is popular doesn’t always mean it’s the best. Above all else do your due diligence, research, take the time to read reviews, purchase from a reputable seller and keep the safety of your kids at the forefront of your mind this shopping season!
What is the toy that’s the top of your kids’ list this year?
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