Baby Toy Safety
Learn how to choose the safest baby toy for your little one.
I think babies are the greatest. They are so cute and innocent that I always question who would want to hurt them. Especially when I hear a story on the news that one was abandoned or harmed.All infants need to be protected. And if you are reading this page, then I know that you agree too. They come in this world with no defenses, therefore they depend on us to take care of them and protect them from harm. Toys can be one of the harmful things if we don't pick out the right ones. So here is a list of things to look for when purchasing toys for your baby. - Make sure toys that have painted surfaces, are covered with non-toxic paint. Let's face it. Babies put everything in their mouth. Non-toxic paint does not irritate babies' systems.
- Don't hang toys or pacifiers around your little one's neck. This is a strangulation risk.
- Washable and non-breakable toys are great for babies. That way you can wash the toy when it gets dirty.
- Make sure that your little one's stuffed toys are not stuffed with pellets or beads. If the toy came apart, the pellets/beads could be a choking risk.
- Never buy a toy for an infant that is labeled, "Not suitable for children under 3 years old". These toys could have small parts that could choke a baby.
- Do not buy a baby toy that has a string on it that is more than 6 inches long. This is also a strangulation risk.
- Check for durability. Before buying a particular toy, always ask yourself if the toy can hold up to your little one's drool, twisting, and manhandling.
- Make sure your baby can't put the whole toy in his/her mouth. If you are not sure, you can check by seeing if it will fit in a toilet paper roll. If it fits, then you must forget.
- Buy infant toys that have bright and vibrant colors. Contrasting colors like black and white or primary colors like red and blue work best.
- Babies also love textures. Textures can be anything smooth, bumpy, or ridged. Shapes like round, or square are good too. Just make sure the toy does not contain sharp corners or edges that could cut your baby.
- Do not buy baby toys with 2 or more magnets. If two or more magnets are swallowed and are attracted to each other while in the body, it can cause major internal problems.
- Don't let your baby play with a plastic bag, plastic wrappings or balloons. They can choke or smother your little one.
- Forget the toys that have loud noises. These toys can damage a baby's hearing.
- Periodically check for
recalls on your baby's toys.
Also, keep toys that are intended for older children, out of your little one's hands. They may be dangerous to a baby, so teach older children to keep their toys away from their younger brother or sister.AND.... Periodically check your infant's toys to make sure there are no broken or loose pieces that he/she can choke on. Whew! That is a lot to keep up with, but it is worth it because a safe baby is ALWAYS a happy baby.
Want more?
Click here for toy safety for toddlers!
Return from Baby Toy Page to Toy Safety Page
Return from Baby Toy Page to Home Page
|
