(HealthDayNews) -- If you're shopping for new toys, don't use the price tag as a safety guide, advises Harvard Medical Schools. Pricier does not necessarily mean safer.
Here are some guidelines for selecting toys:
- Read and strictly follow labels for age and safety recommendations.
- Choose toys that carry the seal of approval from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety or the letters ASTM, which indicates the product meets safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
- Match toys to your child's age and abilities.
- Avoid toys with cords or strings.
- Avoid toys that shoot small objects.
- Avoid toys that make loud or shrill noises that can damage hearing.
- Make sure toys targeted to children younger than age 8 do not have metal or glass edges.
