What to Expect the Toddler Years (222 page)

Sharp implements such as knives, scissors, needles and pins, knitting needles, letter openers, disposable razors and razor blades (don’t leave these on the side of the tub or dispose of them in a wastebasket your toddler could get into).

Pens, pencils, and other pointed writing implements (substitute chunky nontoxic crayons or fat washable markers, instead). If your child occasionally wants to “write” with a pencil, pen, or markers “just like a grown-up,” allow such use only when he or she is seated and you can supervise closely. (And be sure the ink is washable.)

Small notions, including: thimbles, buttons, marbles, coins, safety pins, button batteries (used in hearing aids); anything a child might swallow or choke on (see page 621).

Lightweight or filmy plastic bags, such as produce bags, dry cleaning bags, and packaging on new clothing, pillows, and other items. These can suffocate a young child if placed over the face. Remove clothing from dry cleaning bags and new items from their plastic wrap as soon as you get them home; then safely dispose of (or recycle) the plastic. For storage, use zippered garment bags instead of dry cleaning bags.

Incendiary articles, such as matches and matchbooks, lighters, and unextinguished cigarettes.

Tools of a trade or a hobby: paints and thinners if there’s an artist in the house; pins and needles if there’s a dressmaker; wood-working equipment if there’s a carpenter; and so on.

Toys that belong to older siblings. These generally should not be within reach of children under three. Of particular concern are: building sets with small
pieces; large trikes, bikes, and scooters; miniature cars and trucks; and anything with sharp corners, small or breakable parts, or electrical connections.

Button batteries. The disk-shaped type used in watches, calculators, hearing aids, cameras, and so on are easy to swallow and can release hazardous chemicals into a child’s esophagus or stomach. Store new, unused batteries in an inaccessible place in their original packaging rather than loose. Keep in mind that “dead” batteries are as hazardous as fresh ones; dispose of them promptly and safely. Know what kind of batteries you are using; if your toddler swallows one, the poison control center will want that information.

Fake food. Apples, pears, oranges, and other fake food made of wax, papier-mâché, rubber, or any other substance that isn’t safe for children (a wax apple, a candle that smells and looks like an ice-cream sundae, a child’s eraser that smells and looks like a ripe strawberry).

Cleaning materials and other household products (see page 637 for a list of those that are toxic).

Glass, china, or other breakables.

Light bulbs. Small ones, such as those in night-lights, are particularly easy for the toddler to mouth and break. Remove your toddler’s night-light during the day and put it safely out of reach.