Knowing which toys are safe should be a top priority for all parents and guardians. When choosing a toy, it is best to determine how appropriate it is for the age and ability of each child.

With children ages zero to three, the most important safety consideration is choking. Toys with parts smaller than one and three quarters of an inch (roughly the inside diameter of a toilet paper roll) can easily be swallowed and create a choking hazard, and should be avoided in this age group. Look for toys with sturdy construction, as toddlers like to pull, twist and prod. Toys with sharp edges and points, and ones that produce loud, shrill noises are others to avoid. Ideal toys include large wood blocks, pots and pans, sturdy dolls, kiddy cars and books with cardboard pages.

For three- to five-year-olds, ideal toys are ones that are experimental and imitate adult or older child activities, such as arts and crafts toys, workbench toys, housekeeping toys, puzzles with big pieces and playground toys. Toys for those older than three are more likely to have small, separate pieces, so it is important to keep these toys separated from younger children in households with multiple children. Be sure to look for a “non-toxic” label on toys such as crayons, chalk and clay. Remember that children under eight should not play with latex balloons, as they are a choking hazard. Toy guns should also be closely scrutinized, especially if they shoot projectiles, as these can cause serious eye injuries.

Riding toys (wagons, tricycles, bicycles, etc.) deserve special attention to ensure safety. These types of toys are associated with the largest number of injuries each year. Close supervision is imperative, especially in children younger than eight. Helmets are an absolute must for bicycles, skateboards and non-powered scooters. Bicycle helmets have been shown to reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent and brain injury by 88 percent.

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission requires toy manufacturers to meet stringent safety standards and to place warning labels on toys that may pose a safety hazard for younger children. The CPSC provides consumer guides for selecting suitable toys, and maintains up-to-date information on dangerous toys. Information can be obtained via a toll-free hotline number (1-800-638-CPSC or 1-800-638-2772) that reports on unsafe products and offers recall information.

Remember, finding the perfect toy requires matching the toy with the child’s age and ability. Toy manufacturers’ recommendations can serve as a useful guide for doing this. By just reading the labels, knowing the safety risks for young children and providing proper guidance, you can find that perfect toy this Christmas that will provide your child with many fun-filled hours.

MCG Health System is composed of three separate organizations -- MCG Health, Inc. and the clinical services offered by the faculty employees of the Medical College of Georgia and the members of the Physicians Practice Group. The physicians of MCG Health System are community physicians, faculty employees of the Medical College of Georgia, and employees of the Physicians Practice Group, not employees of MCG Health Inc. MCG Health, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation operating the MCG Medical Center, MCG Children’s Medical Center, the MCG Sports Medicine Center, MCG Ambulatory Care Center, the Georgia Radiation Therapy Center and related clinical facilities and services. MCG Health, Inc. was formed to support the research and education mission of the Medical College of Georgia and to build the economic growth of the CSRA, the state of Georgia and the Southeast by providing an environment for faculty employees of the Medical College of Georgia and the Physicians Practice Group and community physicians to deliver the highest level of primary and specialty health care. For more information, please visit www.MCGHealth.org.