When selecting toys for a child, be mindful that not all toys for sale in Australia are guaranteed to be safe, even if they need to meet the safety standards (AS/NZS ISO 8124). Toys from cheap variety stores, markets or homemade toys, for example, may not adhere to these standards as strictly as those from trusted toy stores. Always read product labels of toys that you purchase and ensure that you heed age recommendations and warnings to prevent any potential hazards.
Tips for buying safe toys:
DO
✔️ Ensure the toy complies with the Australian safety standard.
✔️ Always check toy labels before you purchase.
✔️ Be vigilant about choking hazards, such as small detachable parts.
✔️ Select age-appropriate toys for your child.
✔️ Heed the age recommendations on packaging, which pertain to safety, not the child's intelligence or abilities.
✔️ Ensure that battery-operated toys have battery cases that secure with screws so that children cannot pry them open.
✔️ Examine toys for solid construction and the absence of sharp edges to prevent injuries.
✔️ Check wooden toys to ensure they have smooth edges and no splinters.
✔️ Choose non-toxic and non-flammable toys.
✔️ Exercise caution with home-made and second-hand toys, which may lack appropriate safety warnings and could contain hazardous materials such as lead paint.
DON’T
❌ Don’t give balloons as toys to young children.
Additional resources:
Products | Product Safety Australia
Toys | Product Safety Australia
What is the EN71 toy safety standard
Button cell battery use around children
Product Safety Australia - Balloons
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