Toys are great for your child to play with. They can help your child learn and develop, as well as entertain them. It's important you still supervise them while they play. To keep your child safe while playing with toys, you can:
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Look for the CE symbol or a UKCA mark when buying toys.
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Check the age range for the toy to ensure suitable for your child. This is important if your child is under 3. Try to avoid your young child playing with toys for older children.
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Check for loose items, sharp edges, points, and small parts.
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Regularly check garden swings and slides are robust and are not a strangulation hazard.
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Check toys regularly for wear and tear and dispose of them where necessary.
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Keep play areas tidy.
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Some toys will have warnings and instructions to follow.
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Supervise young children at play.
The Toy Safety Regulations 2011 require toys to be safe. However, not all toys are suitable for all ages. Some educational tools are not designed as toys so will not follow safety rules. For example, chemistry sets can be seen as toys.
Wheat bags and wheat-filled toys
Wheat bags are packs that you warm up in a microwave. Please use them with care. Instructions on how to use them need to be followed carefully.
Microwavable soft toys are popular but need to be used with caution and under adult supervision. They can be a fire hazard. Always read the manufacturer's instructions.