1. Choose for the child and the setting
Review the product age guidance, skills required, parts, materials, and intended type of play before purchase. Age guidance is a safety consideration as well as a developmental guide. Consider younger children and pets who may have access to the same play area.
2. Packaging and instructions control
Read and retain the warnings, labels, assembly instructions, care instructions, and manufacturer information supplied with the product. Those materials contain product-specific guidance and take priority if general storefront text differs from the delivered item.
Product statements shown on Sprout are not a substitute for the manufacturer or importer's certificates, test records, warnings, or legal responsibilities. The absence of a compliance statement on a product page is not a certification of compliance or noncompliance.
3. Supervision and safe use
- Provide adult assembly or supervision when instructions require it.
- Keep small parts, magnets, batteries, cords, and project materials away from children who cannot use them safely.
- Use the product only for its intended purpose and in an appropriate play area.
- Follow all protective-equipment, cleaning, storage, and disposal instructions supplied with the item.
4. Inspect before and during use
Check the product at first use and periodically afterward. Stop use if a part is loose, cracked, torn, overheated, leaking, swollen, missing, or otherwise damaged, or if a warning label can no longer be read. Keep separated pieces away from children until the product can be assessed.
5. Recalls
Stop using a product immediately if it is subject to a recall and follow the remedy stated in the recall notice. U.S. consumers can search the official CPSC recalls database. Recall notices may identify the product by model, date code, batch, packaging, importer, or other markings.
Do not sell, donate, or give away a recalled product. Keep it separated from children while following the recall remedy.
6. Reporting an incident or possible hazard
Preserve the product, packaging, order reference, model or lot markings, instructions, and clear photographs. Record what happened, when it happened, the child's age range, and whether medical attention or property damage was involved, without publishing the child's personal information.
A product incident can also be reported through the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at SaferProducts.gov. For an urgent medical situation, contact local emergency services or a qualified medical professional.