The Consumer Product Safety Commission just released a report with guidelines for choosing the safest toys this holiday season.

Here are the top 5 toy hazards:

-Scooters and riding toys, especially due to lack of helmets or safety gear.

-Small toys and toy parts that can be swallowed by kids under 3.

-Balloons: not good for sea life, not good for babies.

-Magnets aren’t good for kids under six, because they can be deadly if swallowed.

-Battery chargers and adapters require adult supervision to avoid burns.

Check out the full report at CPSC before beginning your holiday shopping to ensure a safe, happy holiday season.

I saw a report on the news last night that linked lead exposure in children to an increased risk in criminal behavior in adulthood, which is especially scary in light of all the recent toy recall news. I’ve found some toy recall site that are great resources, so I’ll include them this post and to my blog roll.

Lead Toy Recalls

Consumers Union: Not in My Cart

US Consumer Product Safety Commission

Mattel Customer Relations Answer Center : Product Recalls

EPA : Lead in Paint, Dust, and Soil