As the holidays approach, parents are out shopping for the latest toys for their children. Unfortunately, each year there are a long list of unsafe toys that have been recalled because they are found to be potentially dangerous. Babies and toddlers are especially at risk when playing with these toys.

Parents magazine has compiled a list of toys that have been recalled by the manufacturer because of the hazard they pose to children. An example is shown here – the Big Ideas Horse-on-a-Stick toy. The reins on the horse’s bridle are long enough to fit around a child’s head and pose a strangulation danger.

Simple old fashioned toys are still one of the best choices for young children. When made of a natural material like wood and designed without small pieces, they’re safe for even the youngest babies.

Read more about safe and natural toys in this earlier post.

According to child psychology experts, nurturing your baby’s creativity and imagination is one of the most important things you can do as a parent. An active imagination is an important component of intelligence, allowing your child to become an original thinker. Many of today’s high-tech toys purport to be educational, but some old-fashioned toys actually do a better job at encouraging creativity. For example, building blocks are versatile toys that can be used for a variety of activities besides stacking, such as sorting by color.

Other ways to boost your child’s imagination are by encouraging free play and make-believe. Repurpose everyday items for playthings, such as socks that have been made into puppets and bean bags made from dried beans. Planning a variety of fun outings is another way to encourage your child’s imagination. Perhaps most important of all, don’t rely too much on TV and other electronics as a way to keep your child entertained.