However, without the right precautions, toys can also be hazardous.

Start by making sure that toys are age-appropriate.

Avoid dangerous items such as small magnets, button batteries, and latex balloons.

happy newborn holding a round toy in the air

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How small batteries can become dangerous to children.

American Academy of Pediatrics.https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Button-Battery-Injuries-in-Children-A-Growing-Risk.aspxOpens a new window[Accessed August 2022]

AAP.

How high-powered magnetic toys can harm children.

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American Academy of Pediatrics.https://www.healthychildren.org/English/safety-prevention/at-home/Pages/Dangers-of-Magnetic-Toys-and-Fake-Piercings.aspxOpens a new window[Accessed August 2022]

CPSC.

Home safe home for the holidays: CPSC and interior designer Sabrina Soto share holiday safety tips this season.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2020/Home-Safe-Home-for-the-Holidays-CPSC-and-Interior-Designer-Sabrina-Soto-Share-Holiday-Safety-Tips-this-SeasonOpens a new window[Accessed August 2022]

CPSC.

baby lying on a bed among baby building blocks and biting the big yellow one

Ingested magnets can cause serious intestinal injuries.

U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/5221.pdfOpens a new window[Accessed August 2022]

CPSC.

Response to petition CP 17-1, Requesting rulemaking regarding magnet sets.

close up of a chubby baby arm

Toy-related deaths and injuries calendar year 2020.

U.S. Consumer Products Safety Commission.https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/Toy-Related-Deaths-and-Injuries-2020.pdfOpens a new window[Accessed August 2022]

National Capital Poison Center.

Best toys for 2-year-olds

child holding a doll

phone with BabyCenter app

Elizabeth Dougherty