As the holiday season draws near, many parents are rushing to purchase the latest and most popular toys for their children. While play is essential for a child's development, learning, and exploration, it's important to recognize that some toys can pose serious risks if not used properly. In fact, one child is injured by a toy every three minutes, according to recent research.
A study published in *Clinical Pediatrics* revealed that between 1990 and 2011, approximately 327,800 children in the U.S. visited emergency rooms due to toy-related injuries. The data shows that over the past two decades, the rate of such injuries has risen by nearly 40%, with pedal scooters being a major contributor. In 2011 alone, an injury occurred every three minutes, with more than half of the cases involving kids under five years old.
Dr. Gary Smith, lead author of the study, emphasized that while play is natural for children, it's crucial to ensure their safety. He noted that younger children are especially vulnerable to choking or suffocating on small parts, with over 109,000 cases of swallowed or inhaled foreign bodies reported in children under five. On average, almost 14 such incidents happen daily.
As children grow older, the types of injuries change. For those aged 5 to 17, 42% of toy-related injuries are linked to ride-on toys like scooters, toy cars, and tricycles. These injuries often result in fractures or dislocations, which are more severe than injuries from other types of toys. Falls and collisions are the most common causes, accounting for 46% and 22% of all incidents, respectively.
To keep children safe, parents and caregivers should:
- Always check age recommendations and follow safety instructions.
- Inspect toys for small parts that could be a choking hazard.
- Ensure ride-on toys are used in safe, flat, and traffic-free areas.
- Supervise children under eight when riding toys.
- Encourage the use of protective gear like helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads.
- Stay informed about toy recalls and take action promptly if needed.
By being mindful of these risks and taking simple precautions, parents can help make playtime both fun and safe for their children.
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