It is essential that ride-on toys be very sturdy and well balanced. They should be wide enough across the seat to hold the child comfortably, but not so wide as to hinder easy foot and leg motion. Wheels should move freely and be recessed so that the child can push vigorously without bumping legs and feet into parts of the vehicle, and wheel bases should be large and low enough to prevent tipping.

Take care in ensuring that the size, and especially the height, of the vehicle are appropriate for the child; a ride-on toy that is too large may intimidate a young child, while one that is too small will not function well. Look for tip-proof bars on "first" ride-on toys to provide greater stability, and check to ensure that the toy will not go too fast.

Toys with walker bars for pushing should not roll too freely if they are to be used by young, uncertain walkers. Ensure that the handle on a wagon is of a comfortable length for the child and that the toy is well balanced, even when cornering.

The Council is very concerned about the safety of rocking toys in general. Rocking toys should be steady and stable enough to permit safe mounting, and should not rock so far that they might tip forwards or backwards. Before you buy, be sure you have a large open play space with a soft, carpeted floor, uncluttered by surrounding furniture on which children may bump their heads in the event of a fall. Be prepared to supervise play sessions closely, particularly mounting and dismounting, and discourage any attempts to rock too vigorously.