Toddler Safety

Toy Size

Any toy that fits completely into your toddler’s mouth is too small and can cause choking. Check that your toddler cannot squash a larger toy, such as a sponge, into a smaller size and put it into his or her mouth. A good rule of thumb is that anything that can pass down the middle of a toilet paper roll is too small for a toddler. Toys should be at least 3.5 cm (1.4 in.) wide and 6 cm (2.4 in.) long.

Safe Toys

  • Make sure any paint on toys is non-toxic, lead-free, and cannot peel.
  • To prevent choking, don’t offer your toddler toys with strings, cords, or ribbons that are longer than 15 cm (6 in.). Longer ties can get wrapped around your toddler’s neck and cut off breathing. Cut these cords off before giving the toy to your toddler. Be careful about other things that can act like cords, such as audiotapes, pull toys, or skipping ropes.
  • Avoid using polystyrene or Styrofoam material (egg cartons, packing materials, food containers) as toys. They can break into pieces and cause choking if your toddler puts them in his or her mouth.

  • Check toys often for broken, sharp, or loose pieces. Fix or throw out broken toys right away.
  • Watch when your toddler plays with battery operated toys. Make sure your toddler does not put batteries into his or her mouth. When the toy is not in use, store it and the batteries out of reach.
  • Be very careful with balloons. They can cause choking for children of all ages. Always blow up balloons for children. Never allow your toddler to chew on any unused balloons or those that have popped. Throw away balloons that have gone flat, and do not let your toddler suck or chew on inflated balloons.
  • Put toys not being used into a toy box to prevent falls. Also, storing unused toys helps ensure that your toddler will not use toys unsupervised. The toy box should have a lid that will not trap your toddler inside or slam down on fingers or head.
  • Make sure that any toy (or toy box) that is large enough for your toddler to climb into and has a lid or door also has a source of air such as air holes or cut‑outs.
  • Buy washable toys and wash them often to prevent the spread of germs. Most stuffed toys can be put in a pillowcase with a knotted top and washed and dried with good results.
  • When possible, give your toddler well‑made toys. These last longer and are generally safer.
  • Always read the safety information on a toy’s warning label. Choose toys that are recommended for your toddler’s age.
  • To prevent suffocation, immediately throw away or recycle the packaging from new toys.
  • Do not let noise from toys damage your toddler’s hearing. If you have to raise your voice to be heard above the noise level of a toy, the toy is too noisy.