There seems to be never-ending options when it comes to toys, even for infants and toddlers…

And right along with the choices there seems to be a psychology behind “why” that toy (contrasting colors, engages the left brain, engages the right brain, works on motor skills, good for pre-literacy, etc). But as parents and caregivers, we should really be thinking about toys that are the safest choice for our infants and toddlers. Although there are a lot of regulations surrounding the toy industry, those regulations may not be as strict in other parts of the world.

Along with some key safety toy considerations for infants and toddlers, here are some of our top safe toy choices for this gift giving season.

Safety Considerations

At this age, toys are going to go right into their mouths. You will want to make sure that toys aren’t too small, they could withstand chewing, don’t have splintered wood or peeled paint, or string that they can choke on. KidsHealth.Org has additional considerations for safe toys for infants and for toddlers.

And because those toys are constantly in the mouths of babes, choosing toys that are washable are always a better bet!

Loud toys can also be harmful. If you have a choice, choose the quieter toy or a toy that makes no noise at all.

Children are expensive – it’s true. But if you can, avoid secondhand toys, especially if you don’t know who the original owner was. You just don’t know the safety history of the toy let alone the germs it is bringing into your home.

Be sure to continually check the toys to make sure there are no broken pieces or edges and that there are no cracks or broken seems.

Always make sure to follow the manufacturers age recommendations for the toy.