“When you’re shopping for children, the main things you want to keep in mind are their ages, interests and skill levels,” said Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension consumer and housing specialist. “All toys are not for all children.”

For instance, balloons, magnets and small balls and other toys with little parts can pose dangers to children, especially those 3 or younger. In fact, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, two of the leading causes of toy-related fatalities are choking or aspirating on toy parts.

“Deflated and broken balloons can be a choking hazard, especially for kids younger than 8,” Peek said. “The same goes for play sets with magnets. Kids, particularly those age 6 or younger, could be seriously hurt, or even die, if they swallow a magnet.”

Meanwhile, when it comes to riding toys such as bikes, scooters, skateboards and in-line skates, do not forget to also pick up helmets and safety gear, which should be sized to fit and worn properly.

Beyond those basic safety measures, even with the excitement of the season, it is important to remember to immediately discard plastic wrappings and other packaging once toys are opened.

“The packaging and plastic film on toys and other products can be a choking hazard. Be sure to inspect toys first and remove any plastic or protective film before letting the kids enjoy the gift,” Peek said.

Finally, adults should oversee the charging of any batteries because chargers and adapters can represent burn hazards, especially for children.

“Carefully read the instructions and warnings that come with battery chargers,” (Last name) said. “Some don’t have mechanisms to prevent overcharging.”

Families can and should monitor toy recalls by visiting the CPSC website at www.cpsc.gov. To search product safety reports or to report a dangerous product or product related injury, parents can go to www.SaferProducts.gov or call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054).

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Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, and Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 (Higher Education Act), the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal and state laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, genetic information, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, or status as a veteran, in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This provision includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid, and educational services. The Director of Equal Opportunity, 408 Whitehurst, OSU, Stillwater, OK 74078-1035; phone 405-744-5371; email: [email protected] has been designated to handle inquiries regarding non-discrimination policies: Director of Equal Opportunity. Any person (student, faculty, or staff) who believes that discriminatory practices have been engaged in based on gender may discuss his or her concerns and file informal or formal complaints of possible violations of Title IX with OSU’s Title IX Coordinator 405-744-9154.

REPORTER/MEDIA CONTACT:
Leilana McKindra
Communications Specialist
Agricultural Communications Services
140 Agriculture North
Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, OK 74078
Phone: 405-744-6792
Fax: 405-744-5739
Email: [email protected]

Read more http://www.dasnr.okstate.edu/Members/leilana.mckindra-40okstate.edu/age-skills-interests-key-in-picking-gifts-for-children

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