Safety and Materials

The materials in a child's environment should be safe. The younger the child, the more careful you must be.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) lists the following potential dangers to keep in mind when selecting materials:

• Sharp edges and points
• Small toys or parts
• Loud noises
• Cords or strings that can wrap around a child's neck
• Toys used to shoot or throw objects
• Equipment inappropriate for a particular age group (pay attention to the manufacturer's age level recommendations)
• Electric or battery-operated toys must be "UL Approved" and in good repair (do not allow children to play with wires or batteries)

Keeping the environment safe involves using and choosing appropriate material in good condition. For example:

• Allow children to use only equipment designed for their size, age, and ability level
• Read and follow all warning labels that come with equipment
• Use equipment in safe places
• Teach children how to use equipment safely and supervise children's play carefully
• Check equipment frequently for damage
• Remove damaged equipment immediately and throw out unrepairable equipment
• Make sure children use safety equipment such as helmets, knee pads, and goggles when appropriate

Note: Balloons are one of the leading causes of accidental death in young children. Un-inflated balloons or pieces of balloons can easily get stuck in a child's throat, suffocating the child. Balloons are inappropriate and dangerous for all young children.

A Basic Approach to a Clean and Healthy Environment - 2 hours
A Basic Approach to Child Safety - 2 hours