Things To Consider When Buying Toys Online

The Main Types of Toys In the past, children owned a limited number of Traditional Toys such as a dolls house or wooden train set. Nowadays, children can choose from a seemingly infinite set of options, some of which are detailed below:- Imagination

The Main Types of Toys

In the past, children owned a limited number of Traditional Toys such as a dolls house or wooden train set. Nowadays, children can choose from a seemingly infinite set of options, some of which are detailed below:-

Imagination Toys such as pirate ships and toy kitchens
Educational Toys such as globes and puzzles
Electronic Toys such as computer games and consoles
Outdoor Toys such as scooters and tricycles
Baby Toys Character Toys such as action figures from TV and film

Ethical Toys are also fast gaining in popularity as parents feel they can treat their children as well as helping poorer toymakers in the developing world to support their families. Some parents choose toys for specific reasons such as ethnic dolls to represent a specific ethnic background or toys designed for disabled children.

Key Points when Choosing a Toy as a Gift

  • Determine the childs age and developmental level. Some able younger children are ready for more challenging toys.

  • Learn the childs preferences - is he or she a sporty or creative child?

  • If buying for a boy, are you limited to boys toys or is the child ready to play with anything?

  • Most importantly, the chosen toy must be sturdy and carry a safety symbol. The younger the recipient, the more important this is.

Choosing Safe Toys

Children in the UK are fortunate as they enjoy some level of statutory protection from dangerous toys. The UK toy industry has to comply with strict safety laws and regulations to ensure the quality and reliability of all toys. The main safety symbols are EN71, the Kite Mark, the Lion Mark and the CE Mark. As long as the toy purchased bears one of these symbols, it is a reasonable guarantee that it is safe for play, assuming of course that the age labelling indicates that it is likely to be appropriate for the child in question. However, always heed any warnings written on the label such as small parts which may be a choking hazard to young children.

Secure Purchase

To ensure the online purchase is safe, consider the following:
  • Reduce the risks of problematic online transactions by paying via a credit card - many card providers will go some, if not all of the way to covering any losses through fraudulent use. Pay using a secure online system which encrypts the consumers details. Use websites with shopping cart, checkout and payment page addresses beginning with 'https://' not just the usual 'http://'. The added s indicates a secure page.


  • All reputable retailers should allow refunds and/or exchanges within 30 days of purchase. Also be aware of your statutory rights. Some are specifically designed to safeguard online consumers such as The Distance Selling Directive. But also remember that all the usual high street rights apply.


  • A retailer who is a member of a relevant trade association can generally be trusted.
Conclusion

Buying safe toys which are well-designed and appropriate to the recipient's gender and age can contribute greatly to a childs growth and development. Buying online makes choosing a safe and high quality toy simple, as the internet offers a wealth of options and valuable advice. However, be sure to verify the online retailer is reputable and follow the precautions given regarding making secure purchases online.

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Caroline Taylor is an independent researcher and writer.



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