Choking hazards come in many forms for infants.  According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), choking is the most common cause of toy-related deaths. 

Some toys that should be avoided to prevent a choking opportunity are obvious, some are not.  Review these tips from CPSC and Public Interest Research Groups to protect your infant.  

1.    Bigger is usually better to avoid choking hazards.  Do not buy small toys or toys with small parts for children under age 3. If a toy or part of a toy can pass through a toilet paper tube, don't buy it for a child under age 3, or any child who still puts things in his/her mouth.
2.    Always read warning labels. Toys with small parts intended for children between ages 3 and 6 are required by law to include an explicit choking hazard warning, but look for warning labels on all toys, not just toys with small parts.
3.    Never give young children small balls or balloons. Small balls and balloons are particularly dangerous.  Children love to play with balloons, but if the colorful balloon bursts, they can easily be swallowed and completely block a child's airway. Balls for children under 6 years old must be more than 1.75 inches in diameter. Never give latex balls to children younger than 8 years old.
4.    Be cautious about building toys with magnets.  Small magnets used in some building toys can fall out and look like shiny candy to an infant. Check these toys regularly to  confirm that the magnet is firmly attached.  If your child swallows a magnet, seek immediate medical attention.
5.    Mobiles should be kept out of reach.  A colorful mobile in the crib can help your child to develop their sight, but they are also attractive to pull on for your baby. Make sure they are mounted high enough to avoid touching, don’t have small parts or strings that can be easily pulled off, and remove them before the baby is able to can push themselves up.
6.    Check the eyes and noses of stuffed animals to ensure they are properly secured.  Button eyes and noses should be avoided, no matter how securely attached they appear.  Also be aware of plastic eyes that can be dislodged and block a child’s airway.
7.    Teach older children to help keep their toys away from younger siblings.  Parents may know that a toy is not safe for baby, but make sure that older siblings are taught to keep toys from the baby that might be harmful.
8.    Stay informed of recalls. The CPSC recalls numerous toys and children's products each year. Check www.recalls.gov for an archive of old recalls and to sign up to receive email alerts of new recalls.

We urge you to report a dangerous toy. Several watchdog groups, in addition to CPSC, are always on the lookout for dangerous toys, but we are all in this together.  If you think a toy or product is hazardous, contact the CPSC and submit a report by calling 1-800-638-2772. 

At A Room Of Their Own, we are careful to only carry infant toys that have been proven safe. Let’s all work together to keep our children safe!