Safety tips

Last updated 27 October 2026

Every idea in Playtime Tonight is meant to be done together, with a grown-up close by the whole time. These habits keep play fun and safe for children aged 1–6. The younger the child, the closer you stay.

These are general tips, not medical advice, and you use every idea at your own risk. In an emergency, call your local emergency number (112 in Europe, 911 in the US) or your poison control centre.

Small things and choking

• Children under 3 explore with their mouths, and 1-year-olds put almost everything in. Give them only big, soft or sturdy things.
• A common rule of thumb: if it fits through a toilet-paper roll, it’s too small to play with unless you’re right there watching.
• Rice, dry pasta, beads, coins, buttons and batteries are choking hazards. Use them only while you sit with your child, and put them away afterwards.
• Button batteries and magnets are especially dangerous if swallowed. Keep them out of reach and get medical help at once if you think one was swallowed.

Food

• Cut grapes, cherry tomatoes and berries into quarters, lengthwise.
• Skip whole nuts, popcorn, hard sweets and chunks of raw carrot or apple at this age.
• Check ingredients for allergies before tasting or cooking activities.
• Homemade playdough is very salty. Don’t let children eat it, and keep it away from pets.

Water

• Young children can drown in just a few centimetres of water, quickly and silently.
• Stay within arm’s reach during any water play or bath, and never leave, even for a moment.
• Empty bowls, buckets and tubs straight after playing.
• Test warm water on your wrist first.

Balloons, strings and plastic bags

• A grown-up blows up balloons. If one pops, pick up every piece straight away: balloon pieces are a serious choking hazard.
• No strings, laces or cords around the neck. Make pasta “snakes”, not necklaces.
• Keep plastic bags out of reach. Tape sealed bags shut and stay close during bag activities.

Tools, heat and cleaning products

• Only butter knives or plastic knives for little hands. Grown-ups handle sharp knives, blenders, the oven and the hob.
• Keep vinegar, soap and cleaning products in your hands or out of reach, and rinse hands after.
• Choose non-toxic, washable paints and markers.

Moving around

• Clear sharp corners and slippery spots before active games.
• Play on rugs or carpet rather than hard, slippery floors.
• Make sure step stools and chairs are steady, and stay next to your child when they climb.