Happy Holiday Shopping - Four Steps to Safety When Buying For Children
It really is better to give than to receive. The holidays are that one time of year when everyone seems to go the extra mile to get that perfect gift especially for all the little ones in their lives. You've got to admit that watching a child get that present they've been waiting for is more fun for you! But while you're in the middle of your gift-buying craze, here are a few safety tips that will keep mom and dad's mind at ease.
1. Do a little homework. Okay, so I know what you're thinking...I don't have time! To that I say, just a few minutes on the web can save you hours in the returns line. Now, this doesn't mean finding out what's on the wish list (although that is a necessity). This kind of research is focused on safety. Many stores are not up to date with the latest safety information on toys. In fact, I recently read an article about a woman that purchased a toy that had been recalled. You can avoid this by checking out cpsc.gov. This website announces all of the most current recalls and can help you shop smart.
2. Silence is Golden. Let's be honest, no one wants to get toys that make a lot of noise; but did you know that there's actually a good reason to avoid them? Certain toys that make sounds are not regulated and are actually loud enough to cause hearing damage to young children. Kids tend to put their ear next the speakers on these toys, and that can simply be too close. A good rule of thumb: if it hurts your ears, leave it at the store.
3. Look at the label. We see so many on everything we buy that it can be easy to glance over a safety label or ignore it completely. But they are there for a reason! So before you get in line, take a closer look at the age recommendation. Many people argue that their little tyke is advanced and can handle more sophisticated toys, but when dealing with a child's safety you are better safe than sorry.
4. Clean Up. So after present time, when you're surrounded by a sea of wrapping paper and empty boxes, take a few minutes to clear the floor. This won't just help your house look nicer; it will help keep your little one safe too. The fact that the toy is safe doesn't mean that the packaging is too. There are so many little plastic pieces and zip ties in that empty box that could be become a safety hazard in the wrong hands.
So now you have a list that you can check twice before your shopping adventure begins. Keeping these four things in mind and taking a few extra steps really can make the difference. The joy of the season should never be dampened by anything like unsafe toys. At the end of the day, every family should have a safe and happy holiday.
1. Do a little homework. Okay, so I know what you're thinking...I don't have time! To that I say, just a few minutes on the web can save you hours in the returns line. Now, this doesn't mean finding out what's on the wish list (although that is a necessity). This kind of research is focused on safety. Many stores are not up to date with the latest safety information on toys. In fact, I recently read an article about a woman that purchased a toy that had been recalled. You can avoid this by checking out cpsc.gov. This website announces all of the most current recalls and can help you shop smart.
2. Silence is Golden. Let's be honest, no one wants to get toys that make a lot of noise; but did you know that there's actually a good reason to avoid them? Certain toys that make sounds are not regulated and are actually loud enough to cause hearing damage to young children. Kids tend to put their ear next the speakers on these toys, and that can simply be too close. A good rule of thumb: if it hurts your ears, leave it at the store.
3. Look at the label. We see so many on everything we buy that it can be easy to glance over a safety label or ignore it completely. But they are there for a reason! So before you get in line, take a closer look at the age recommendation. Many people argue that their little tyke is advanced and can handle more sophisticated toys, but when dealing with a child's safety you are better safe than sorry.
4. Clean Up. So after present time, when you're surrounded by a sea of wrapping paper and empty boxes, take a few minutes to clear the floor. This won't just help your house look nicer; it will help keep your little one safe too. The fact that the toy is safe doesn't mean that the packaging is too. There are so many little plastic pieces and zip ties in that empty box that could be become a safety hazard in the wrong hands.
So now you have a list that you can check twice before your shopping adventure begins. Keeping these four things in mind and taking a few extra steps really can make the difference. The joy of the season should never be dampened by anything like unsafe toys. At the end of the day, every family should have a safe and happy holiday.
Posted at 7:30 AM | Labels: Gifts |
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