Here are some very basic tips to consider before and after purchasing a new toy, to be sure you are making safe choices for the children in your life:

• Read all warnings and instructions.
• Consider a child's ability, rather than age, when purchasing toys; age warnings on toys are not guarantees of safety.
• Buttons, batteries, and magnets can be very dangerous if swallowed.
• Small parts are a choking hazard for children under three.
• Toys that need to be plugged in pose the risk of electrical shock or burn; choose battery-operated toys instead.
• Store toys properly after play to avoid trips and falls or access by younger children.
• Keep older children's toys away from younger children.

For more resources visit these Websites:

Holiday Safety Tips from American Academy of Pediatrics
https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/pages/Holiday-Safety-Tips.aspx

Toy Safety Shopping Tips from Consumer Product Safety Commission
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Newsroom/News-Releases/1994/CPSCS-Toy-Safety-Tips-For-The-Holidays/

Comprehensive Safe Toy Checklist from Prevent Blindness America
www.preventblindness.org/children/safetoys.html

Recalled Toys from Consumer Product Safety Commission
http://www.recalls.gov/