Brand New Dad » Month By Month » 4 Months Old » Toy Safety Is Important

Babies put things into their mouths. So it is important to make sure all toys you give your baby are safe. Here are a few things to look for when choosing toys:

• Make sure toys that you buy for your baby are labeled "non-toxic."
• Toys should have no sharp edges or points.
• Inspect toys often to make sure there are no loose parts. Older toys may break and have sharp edges.
• Make sure small toys, such as squeak toys, rattles and teethers, are large enough so that your baby can't put the whole toy in her mouth. Smaller toys can get stuck in your baby's throat.
• Don't give your baby toys with strings or ribbons. If you have toys like this, just remove the strings.
• Don't hang toys or a pacifier around your baby's neck.
• Don't give your baby toys that have small parts. The parts can come off and she could choke on them. Check for small parts such as buttons and eyes that are glued on.
• Don't give her toys with beads that can be pulled off. Toys that are stuffed with small pellets can come apart, and your baby could choke on the pellets.
• Don't let your baby play with a plastic bag. It can choke or smother her.
• Don't give your baby balloons to play with. The balloon can break and create a choking hazard. Don't give pieces of popped balloons to children of any age. Babies and children can choke on balloon pieces.
• Don't let your baby play with plastic wrapping from toys or other items.
• Older children should be told not to use loud toys around the baby. Such loud noises can damage her hearing.