The Toy-Safety Tips for Preschoolers Every Parent Should Know

No one likes to think about the dangers that their tiny children face, but keeping offspring safe is a primal part of caregiving so you can’t help it. From the second they arrive, their safety is your top priority; you’re wired for it. 

But you can only protect your little ones from the dangers you know — which is an anxiety-producing thought in and of itself! When it comes to safety at home, aside from the more obvious dangers related to bathtubs, stoves, stairs, etc., it’s important to be aware of safety issues related to toys. 

Here are some toy safety tips for preschoolers.

Regarding toys for young children, age-appropriateness isn’t just a matter of developmental stage — it’s also a safety issue. Toys designed for older children may have pieces or parts that could pose a safety hazard for preschoolers who are still putting things in their mouths. These dangers could include choking hazards or toxic materials. 

For age-appropriate toy recommendations, check out these Cubby recommendations.

• The Best Toys for 1-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 2-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 3-Year-Olds
• The Best Toys for 4-Year-Olds

• Sharp edges. Toys with sharp edges or toys that could easily break and produce sharp edges should be avoided.
• Small pieces. Children under 3 should not play with anything that’s small enough to fit into a toilet paper roll. Keep anything this small out of their reach at all times. 
• Cords and strings. Any cord longer than seven inches is dangerous for children, as they could wrap around the neck. Remove any toys with long strings or cords from your child’s reach. 
• Magnets. Magnets are very dangerous for young children because if more than one magnet is swallowed, they can stick together inside the body and cause injury or even death. Keep magnets, especially small ones, away from young children. 
• Batteries. Batteries, especially button batteries, are also extremely dangerous. They are a choking hazard and can also cause internal injury. Make sure that any toys that have batteries have a cover that screws on to the toy so children can’t access batteries. 
• Recalls. Sign up for emails from the CPSC so you stay abreast of any recalls.
• Holes or hinges. Holes and hinges, either those that are part of a toy or those that are a component of toy storage, can hurt young children. Keep them away from preschoolers when not in use and supervise them when in use.
• Lead in vintage toys: Painted or metal vintage toys may look charming, but they can contain dangerous levels of lead and other toxic substances. Keep those on the shelf for display, not for playing with.

Choosing natural materials such as uncoated wood, cotton, and wool helps ensure that your preschoolers aren’t exposed to toxins from dyes or other additives that could be in less natural choices. Keep in mind that wood with finishes or paint could expose your child to harmful substances as well. If the toys are plastic, make sure they are free of BPA, phthalates, and PVC. Avoid recycling codes #3, #6, and #7. 

When buying arts and crafts supplies such as crayons, markers, and paint, be sure they are labeled as non-toxic. Make sure craft supplies like stickers, etc. do not pose a choking hazard. 

When purchasing toys that require safety gear, such as scooters or tricycles, make sure to also purchase the safety gear that goes along with it, such as helmets. Set a precedent from the beginning that these toys may not be used without wearing the appropriate safety gear.