You have already learned how important safety checks are for providing a safe environment. Now you will learn to identify specific materials that may be unsafe. During your daily safety check, toys should be checked to make sure they are safe for children to use. It is important to walk around your classroom each morning to make sure areas are safe. Consider the following questions each morning:

• Are area rugs in the blocks and dramatic play areas secure so children will not trip? Are rugs in good condition and free from frayed edges?
• Are shelves in good condition and free of splinters, sharp edges or other damage?
• Are chairs and tables in good condition and free of splinters, sharp edges or other damage?
• Are art easels secure? Are all hinges covered so children will not pinch fingers?
• Are art materials labeled “nontoxic”? Are scissors and sharp pencils stored with points facing down?
• Are safety goggles, where required, available and in good condition?
• Are musical instruments in good condition? Look for splintering wood or shakers that may come apart to release small, unsafe objects.
• Are all unused outlets covered with either internal or external child-proof outlets?
• Are electrical cords secured safely? Are all electrical cords in good condition (no fraying)? Have you made sure that no electrical cords run under carpets? Are all electric objects in good working order?
• Have all batteries and glass been removed from objects intended for exploration or “take aparts”?
• Are computers plugged into an approved, secured surge protector? Are all electrical cords out of children’s reach?
• Are all toys sturdy and in good condition? Check wooden ramps or other objects for signs of weakness.
• Are any toys with batteries available? If so, are batteries secured in the toys so children cannot remove them?
• 任何加热设备(烹饪设备吗, etc.) stored out of reach?
• As toys are used, have wooden edges become rough or splintered? Have pieces of metal snagged or warped? Have any plastic or glass pieces splintered? If any of these answers are yes, the toy is unsafe and should be replaced or removed.