How to Choose a Present for a Child

Choosing a present for a child is very easy once you have these few basic steps to get you started.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Always read the packaging. Most brands will have an age suggested listed on the front of the package.
2. Examine the gift. Are there small parts that could easily pop-off and become a choking hazard? Children under three are likely to put everything in their mouth.
3. Check the volume of the toy. Some toys are just too loud for a child's developing ear. Look for toys with a volume control. The parents will thank you as well.
4. If the toy uses batteries, check that the Toy has an on/off switch. Some toys actually go off in the middle of the night and will wake a sleeping baby. This may also be a fire hazard.
5. Watch for sharp edges or objects. This is particularly important for children under 8 as they may cut their hands or even accidentally damage their eye with the object.
6. Are their any long cables or strings that a child may strangle themselves with? I don't recommend buying any toys with long cables, strings or ropes until the child is at least 8 years old.
7. If you are not the parent, ask the parent if there is a special toy the child would like. This way you are sure to buy a present that will be appreciated and avoid duplicate gifts. The parents will also appreciate this as children recieve so many unwanted or unneccessary gifts each year.

Tips & Warnings

• Read the packaging carefully. There may be some important information regarding safety listed on the package.
• Avoid buying toys made by unknown manufacturers as they may not have strict safety guidelines for productions.
• Avoid buying toys from 99 cent stores or discount stores as they are less likely to pull recalled toys off the shelf.
• Check the internet first on all toys being purchased for possible recalls and hazards.