Babies put things into their mouths. So it is important to make sure all toys you give your baby are safe. Here are 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 aqueak toys, rattles and teethers, are large enoughso 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 a toys like this, just remove the strings.

*Don't hang toys or pacifer 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 smal pellet can come apart, and your baby could choke on the pellets.

*Older children should be told not use loud toys around the baby. Such loud noises can damage her hearing.

Copyright Permission - Public Domain
This pamphlet is distributed by the U.S. Departments of Agriculture, Education and Health and Human Services, and is in the public domain. Authorization to reproduce it in whole or in part is granted. While permission to reprint this publication is not necessary, the citation should be:
U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Healthy Start, Grow Smart, Your Three-Month-Old, Washington, D.C., 2002.