Your children are navigating the world around them with the small gadgets and toys they can play with. While this is great for building their motor skills, dolls, playhouses, action figures, and other plastic toys come with diminutive accessories that might spark curiosity for your little ones. Before they start shoving things in their mouth, learn how to tell if your children’s toys are a choking hazards by following these tips.

Perform the Toilet Paper Roll Test

One simple way to determine if a toy or accessory is a choking hazard is by using a standard toilet paper roll. If the item fits completely through the opening of the roll, it’s likely small enough to block a young child’s airway. Go through all your children’s small toys and only keep the items that don’t fit in the toilet paper roll.

Check Age Range Labels on Packaging

Toy manufacturers like plastic molding companies benefit startup toy businesses by mass-producing safe toys for a wide range of ages. Large manufacturers include age recommendations on packaging to guide parents on suitable use.

If your children are under the age of 3, avoid toys with small parts—even if your child seems advanced for their age. Adhering to these guidelines can help you avoid potential choking hazards.

Be Cautious With Detachable and Loose Parts

Toys with detachable pieces, including buttons, beads, or small wheels, pose an increased choking risk. Over time, these parts might loosen and fall off. Regularly inspect your child’s toys and discard or replace any broken elements that might be dangerous for little ones.

Avoid Marbles, Balloons, and Small Balls

Marbles, deflated balloons, and small balls are some of the most common choking hazards for toddlers and young children. These toys are small and smooth, and many children may try to put these items in their mouths. You can give children under 5 years old larger toys that are bulky to avoid potential harm.

Stay Mindful of Older Siblings’ Toys

If you have older children, their toys might be more complex and include small components that younger siblings shouldn’t play with. While sharing is caring, teach older children to store their toys in designated areas out of reach from little hands. This habit reduces the chance of your children’s toys being choking hazards.

Regularly Inspect and Declutter Toys

Toys often accumulate quickly in households, and it’s difficult to supervise every second of playtime. Make a habit of periodically reviewing and decluttering your children’s toys. Check for broken parts, size issues, or unapproved novelty items, and either dispose of them or store them away safely.

As your little ones reach for their favorite toy, look out for anything that could be dangerous to their health. Any small element could be a choking hazard, so it’s our responsibility to provide our children with safe environments to explore. Give your children age-appropriate toys and inspect your current stash for broken pieces to protect your children.