Avoid Violent Toys for Children

According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children’s Position Statement, children who play with violent toys may become less sensitive to the pain and suffering of others, more fearful of the world around them, and are more likely to behave in aggressive or harmful ways toward others.

What is a violent toy? It is one that encourages children to play at hurting or killing the enemy and teaches that violence is an acceptable part of normal, everyday life.

Toys for children should promote imagination and creativity, not violence. Here’s a list of toys that are inappropriate or unsafe, may be used as weapons or may teach children violence:

• Broken toys
• Poisonous or oil-based paint sets
• Fireworks of any kind
• Kites made of aluminized polyester film (this material conducts electricity)
• Electrical toys (unless battery operated and used with adult supervision)
• Shooting toys and darts with pointed tips
• BB guns or air rifles, without gun safety instruction
• Violent action figures
• Books with negative messages
• Sharp-edged tools or toys
• Toys that shoot projectiles

When selecting toys for children, keep safety in mind and choose toys that:

• Foster learning, creativity and problem solving
• Are age appropriate
• Match child’s abilities and interests
• Meet national safety standards
• Are well-designed and sturdy
• Include appropriate protective gear such as a helmet or knee pads

Periodically check for broken parts and potential hazards. Teach children how to safely play with toys and always provide adult supervision and proper safety equipment for children.