Toys are meant to be enjoyed but it is essential that children can play with them safely. There are 10 simple steps you can take to ensure that your child enjoys his or her toys in a safe way:

Follow the age recommendations on the package. All toys in the UK have age guidelines. This information is typically written in smaller print and is often located in a lower corner, or back, of the box.

If the toy contains small parts, consider your child’s maturity before purchasing. Even if he or she is in the age range recommended by the manufacturer, parents must consider whether or not their child behaves maturely enough to handle the toy and its parts.

Never leave a child unattended when playing with a toy that features small parts. Even if you step away for a minute, that may be all it takes for your child to decide to put the toy in his/her mouth. This can be very dangerous, so always provide as much supervision as possible while your child is playing with his/her toys and even more so if they feature any small parts. At the same time, never allow children to run with any toys that have sharp or protruding points.

Never allow the child to put toys in his or her mouth. If the child were to swallow any part of the toy, or accessories, the result could be tragic. If you see the child putting his/her toys in their mouth, remove them immediately while saying “no” in a firm voice. It is not necessary to take the toy away from the child, but they should be closely supervised.

Pay attention to consumer safety department notices and product recalls. There is no need to study the news in a paranoid way, but keep an eye out for product recalls. This information is very important because it provides updated information as to the safety of certain products, along with any that have been recently found to have defects. In the latter case, a product recall may be issued in order to avoid injuries. Never allow a child to play with toys that have been recalled or are not deemed to be safe.

Make sure that any drawing markers, paint or crayons that you purchase are non-toxic. On every product that has been tested and is proven to be non-toxic, the label will indicate any such findings. Look closely on the back of the packaging in search of this seal before buying these types of art accessories.

If a toy is painted, make sure that the paint is not coming off. This could be dangerous if the child were to put the toys in his/her mouth or if it were to get in their eyes, so be very mindful of chipping or peeling paint.

Make sure toys and dolls are flame retardant. This is very important for the obvious reasons and to protect the safety of your child.

Make sure that the toys are an authentic product and not a cheap imitation, which may indicate cheaper manufacturing. When shopping for toys, always make sure that you are getting what you pay for. Buy from reputable stores like Hibba Store which do not sell what may be unsafe imports. There is a common misunderstanding is about the CE marking on toys. It is not a European safety marking or quality symbol intended for consumers and should not be considered as such.

Monitor the message or rating that a toy or video game is promoting. These days so many toys are promoting unhealthy messages or ideals. It is important to monitor the toys that your child enjoys in order to make sure that the influences they are getting are the best for their age.

Quick tips about specific types of toys:

- Small Parts - Avoid toys with small parts for young children. These can be inhaled, cause choking or be put into ears and noses. Beware of small parts which can become loose or be bitten off.

-  Filling Materials - Fillings in soft toys can choke young children. Check all seams are secure.

-  Sharp Edges - Examine toys for sharp or rough edges, points or splinters.

- Toys and Sweets - Sweets sold as part of a toy may confuse some children. Will your child be confused?

- Food-like Toys  - Don’t buy any toy which your children are likely to put in their mouths because they think it is food

- Toys with hair -  Loose hair is a serious choking hazard to young children. Check all hair is securely attached.

-  Finger traps - Be aware that toys which fold or have hinges may trap children’s fingers. Check that locking devices work properly.

- Cot Toys - Don’t buy cot or pram toys with long or loose strings. These can become entangled with a child’s body or cause strangulation.

- Toys that Fly - Bullets, arrows and other toys that fly through the air can be dangerous. Consider if your child might misuse such toys. Follow all instructions and warnings.