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Caring for Wooden Toys: Toy Safety
written by Karen Weppner, Family Tree Toys 2000
no part of this article may be reproduced without permission
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After determining that a toy is "well-made" based on the safety of materials used, and the durability of assembly (covered in previous article), the next safety considerations should always be the intended purpose of the toy, and the age-appropriateness.
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INTENDED PURPOSE
Though it might seem obvious, it needs to be said. No toy is safe when used for a purpose other than that for which it was intended. Pull toys are just that and unless specified are not meant to be ridden, even though they have wheels.
Which brings us to the next point.
ADULT SUPERVISION
Children are wonderfully imaginative and inventive. Without guidance, they can find unlimited ways of playing with toys - not all of which are safe. Without discouraging their creativity, adults should intervene when it is clear that the child is venturing beyond the intended use of the toy, into danger.
AGE-APPROPRIATENESS
No matter how well-made a toy might be, it can be a hazard if it is not age-appropriate. By law, toys must be labelled if they contain small parts, but not all toys are. Particularly craft fair type toys.
One of the biggest risks that is perpetuated among craftsmen is the BALL PULL at the end of a string.
This is a choking hazard, and should be removed!
("Small Parts" test tubes are available if you are unsure of what constitutes a choking hazard.) Small children and small parts are not the only consideration. Skill and understanding of the function of the toy are also critical.
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There are many resources available on the topic of toy safety. Here are some to get you started:
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