Without protruding parts: RPN explained how to choose a safe toy

      When choosing a children's toy, parents often focus solely on the child's interest. However, the staff of Rospotrebnadzor reminds us that the item must be not only engaging but also safe. To achieve this, it must meet several parameters.

      Material. The toy should be made from safe materials. Items made from natural fur, bark, and leather are prohibited for small children (under three years old). Soft toys should be chosen with particular caution: the pile must be dense and well-stitched, otherwise, it will shed. Additionally, such toys can accumulate bacteria, so pediatricians do not recommend them for the very young and allergic children.

      Shape. Sharp corners, burrs, and protruding parts are unacceptable — a child could get hurt. If the toy has small parts, they must be securely attached. Hard elements (metal, wood, or plastic) should be positioned so that the child cannot grab them with their teeth and pull them out.

      Color. Experts advise choosing toys in the most natural shades possible. Firstly, this does not disrupt the child's perception of the real world. Secondly, "toxic" colors may contain toxic dyes and scare children. It is also better to avoid black and bright red toys — they may be perceived poorly by the child. At the same time, it is important to remember about age physiology: until four months, infants best distinguish yellow, then orange and red, and by six months — almost the entire rainbow.

      Smell. In the store, do not hesitate — the toy can and should be sniffed. A persistent unpleasant smell indicates that it is made from toxic materials. Such an item should not be purchased.

      Instructions and labeling. It is better to study them before buying. The usage instructions may be on the toy itself, on the packaging, on the label, or in the form of a separate insert. Special attention should be paid to warning labels. For example: "Not recommended for children under 3 years" — for dangerous toys; "Attention! Use only under the direct supervision of adults" — for functional toys that may pose a threat; as well as special warnings for hanging toys in cribs or strollers — they should be removed as soon as the child starts to kneel to avoid entanglement.

      Realism. Psychologists referenced by Rospotrebnadzor do not recommend buying monsters, mutants, and other fantastic characters. The toy should resemble real animals or people — this makes it easier for the child to draw analogies with the surrounding world.

      Sound. It should not irritate the ears or scare the child. If the toy is musical, it is advisable to listen to all the melodies before purchasing and check if the child will be frightened. It is good if volume control is provided. For musical wind toys (whistles, horns), it is important that the parts that come into contact with the lips are made from easily disinfectable materials that do not absorb moisture.

      Special requirements — for the very young. Rattles for infants should not be painted or hand-decorated. Their maximum weight is 100 grams. If there is liquid inside the toy, the casing must be tight and durable. Parts that the child puts in their mouth should be made from easily disinfectable, moisture-resistant materials.

      And the last piece of advice from Rospotrebnadzor: buy toys only in specialized stores. Do not take them "from hand" or in unauthorized trading places — there is a higher risk of encountering a counterfeit made from toxic materials.

      Before purchasing, it is enough to spend a few minutes: read the packaging, check the age labeling, assess the shape and color, and sniff. If at least one point raises doubts — it is better to leave the toy in the store.