KiddiTouch ensures that all the toys we sell always comply with the appropriate toy safety standards. We always work closely with our production partners to make sure that not only are the safety requirements met, but also that the toys we sell are suitable for the age and development needs of our younger generation.
The following are hints and tips to make your
child's play time safe, secure and above all, great fun:
What is the Lion Mark
The Lion Mark is a symbol of safety and quality, backed by a Code of Practice and developed by the British Toy & Hobby Association (BTHA) in 1988. It is used only by members of this association.
Toys bearing the Lion Mark have been made to
the highest standards currently in force in Britain
Handling Small Parts
When buying toys, always buy with the child's age in mind and ensure that the product is suitable for this age. Little children can easily choke on small parts of the toys.
The under-3s are especially at risk because
they put everything into their mouths to explore shape and texture. It is
impossible to watch a child all the time and even if you think your child has
understood your warnings, a small toy can prove tempting. A safety message such
as 'not suitable for children under 36 months because of small parts' must be
taken very carefully. Toys will be clearly marked if they are unsuitable for
the under-3s. Look for a text panel, or the following symbol, which indicates
that the toy is unsuitable as it may contain small parts that could cause a
choking hazard.
Why Age Restrictions Matter
Messages such as 'recommended for children aged three - four' or 'play age five - seven' are just a guideline. Age guidelines can help you choose if the toy will be fun for your child to play with and if it will prove stimulating. Remember, what he or she enjoys playing with at the moment - for example, if a 10-piece jigsaw is easy for your child to complete, try one with 20 or 25 pieces.
Checking Your Toy
When you get the toy out of the box, check that it is sturdy and well made. It's especially important to look over toys for babies and toddlers to make sure there are no small pieces that come loose or seams that could come apart. Also, don't forget that if a toy is not strong enough to withstand play, it will be a disappointment to an older child. Remember the packaging is not normally part of the toy and should be disposed of safely before the toy is given to your child to play with. Be aware of toy features that may be hazardous, e.g.:
· Toys with cords could be dangerous for children as they could
become entangled, cords are also a strangulation hazard
· Cot toys should be removed when a baby is able to push up on
hands and knees as they could become entangled or fall against it
· Any play with water (bath toys, paddling pools etc) should be
closely monitored to prevent drowning
Regularly check the condition of a toy once
purchased and played with - and always discard toys if they become broken
during play
Choosing the Right Toy for Your Child
Often a toy is well designed and safe but
causes problems when it gets into the wrong hands. A building brick that is
safe, interesting and educational for an older child can be lethal if a toddler
chokes on it. Likewise, a toddler who can only sit up, won't cope with a
trundle truck and will just keep falling off. Think about your children and
what they can manage before you buy a toy. Keep toys intended for older
children out of the reach of younger children.
Beware of Small Magnets
Some Toys contain small magnets. If more than
one magnet is swallowed, they can connect to each other inside the body and,
this can lead to tissue damage. We at, KiddiTouch, are required to show the
following warning on all toys that contain small magnets:-
“Warning ! This toy contains magnets or
magnetic components. Magnets sticking together or becoming attached to a
metallic object inside the human body can cause serious or fatal injury. Seek
immediate medical help if magnets are swallowed or inhaled.”
All products that KiddiTouch sells containing small magnets must
have this warning. There is no immediate risk to children playing with these toys
in a normal or foreseeable way, but parents should take care if their child has
a history of swallowing small parts, or mouthing their toys, and care should be
taken if the child the toy is intended for has younger brothers and sisters.
