Arts and Crafts Safety

Now that the school year is in full swing, many children will be participating in various arts and crafts projects both during and after school hours.  These projects are fun and educational for children, but it is important that parents stay vigilant about safety.

Now that the school year is in full swing, many children will be participating in various arts and crafts projects both during and after school hours.  These projects are fun and educational for children, but it is important that parents stay vigilant about safety.

It is essential to choose age appropriate arts and crafts projects for your children.  Additionally, young children must be adequately supervised as many arts and crafts materials can contain toxic ingredients.  Children are especially at risk for exposure to chemicals because their lungs, brains, and nervous systems are not fully developed.  Make sure the children are aware of the safety rules before beginning the craft project.  Certain paints, solvents, and other materials should only be handled while wearing gloves.  Some materials are not appropriate under any circumstance for elementary school aged children.

Harm from craft materials can arise from inhalation or direct contact with skin. Some safety tips for arts and crafts projects:

• Make sure adequate supervision is provided
• Always choose age appropriate arts and crafts
• Avoid using materials made with heavy metals, or other toxic chemicals for young children’s projects
• If using materials that emit fumes, make sure the area is well ventilated
• Do not allow food and drink into the arts and crafts area
• Avoid using hot glue guns or projects involving sharp tools with young children
• Avoid projects that can create airborne dusts
• Make sure children wash their hands after handling materials
• If you notice an unusual reaction, contact emergency first aid immediately

When the project is finished, make sure to properly store all materials.  Do not store craft materials in food containers, and make sure all containers are properly labeled.

If your child has been injured while participating in an arts and crafts project due to negligent supervision, you may be entitled to compensation.  Contact a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal rights and remedies.  Call the personal injury attorneys at the Law Office of McGuire & Pelaez, P.C. today at (631) 348-1702.