Northeast Ohio Woodworker’s Guild

Guidelines for Toys for Small Children

Chocking is the most common cause of toy-related injury and death, especially among children 3 and under.

The following toys are not appropriate for infants:

1. Toys that hang in cribs and playpens with strings longer than 6”.
2. Toys that are small enough or that have parts that may become lodged in and infant’s throat. Toys or separate parts should be at least 1¾” in size or as big as a ping-pong ball.
3. Toys should be finished in a non-toxic finish.
4. Toys with sharp edges or points.
5. Toys that can trap fingers

The following toys are not appropriate for children 3 and under:

1. Small toys or toys with removable parts that can become lodged in the child’s throat. (game pieces, marbles, removable eyes, etc.) Remember the 1¾” rule..
2. Toys with breakable or loose parts. (Toys with small wheels, action figures with removal pieces, game pieces) Again remember the 1 ¾” rule.
3. Toys should be finished in a non-toxic finish.
4. Toys with sharp edges or points.
5. Toys that can trap fingers
6. Toys with strings longer than 6”

The smaller the child—the bigger the toy.

Remember that children under 3 put everything in their mouths, up their noses and in their ears. Also they can’t cough things up until they’re over 3.

If a toy can fit into a container about the size of a film canister (ping pong ball) or if it can easily break into parts this small, then a child under 3 should not be playing with it.

Sharp points or rough edges will scratch and cut the skin. A child can knock itself with or fall on pointed or irregular surfaces.

Check that paints and fillings aren’t toxic because children can be poisoned if they lick or swallow then.

Do not use treated lumber

Check that strings or tails on toys are not long enough to choke or tangle around a child’s neck.

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