Mouthing Beyond Three
Keeping neurodivergent children and adults safe through community action
Current UK toy safety regulations create a dangerous blind spot that puts neurodivergent children and adults at serious risk. The regulations assume all children stop mouthing objects by 36 months
60% of autistic children continue mouthing objects well beyond age 3
People with learning disabilities are 100 times more likely to die from choking
Zero safety guidance exists for families managing mouthing behaviours after 36 months
Simply labelling everything as dangerous isn't the answer. Our children deserve more than being limited to baby toys. They need appropriate, engaging items that support their development while keeping them safe.
This challenge is complex and will take years to fully address – but that's not a reason to do nothing. Real change starts with us: families who understand the daily reality, educators who see the need, and communities ready to act.
Together, we're creating the first comprehensive safety resources designed by and for families navigating mouthing beyond three.
There are many ways to get involved
🖥️ Can't travel? You will get more out of coming along in-person, but we know that isn't always possible. Please get in touch (ToyScopeUK@gmail.com) if you would like to attend the session remotely.
Your family's strategies and challenges will shape our support guide. Every story helps us create better resources for everyone.
Help us reach families who need this information most. Download materials to share.
Meet the Team
The work of this project is bigger than us, but someone has to start it. Here is a group of brave women who do not shy away from complex issues, but get together and explore ways for even a tiny little change. Little steps by brave people bring the biggest impact.
Dr Sara Mursic
Project leader & ToyScope founder
Michelle Blake
Wonder Neurodiversity CIC Director
Andrea Buckley
Lou's mother and activist for toy safety
Sarah Ryan
Mini First Aid Merseyside
In 2025, we build the foundation:
July - funding confirmed by OPSS
August - project team formation
September - connecting with families and community partners
October - public community events in St Helens and Liverpool
November - digital and printed resources become available
December - launch of our video course
What happens in 2026 is fully shaped by our community:
Do we work more with schools?
Do we influence and inspire toy manufacturers?
Do we create new toy safety stickers for sellers?
Do we train more families in first aid?
Do we evaluate mouthing-safe public spaces?
Your voice and participation matter. Join us to make this work meaningful and lasting.
Help Us Reach Everyone Who Needs This
Not everyone has time to scroll social media. Many families caring for children with complex needs only check their phones once a week. Others don't use social media at all.
That's why we need YOU:
Tell that parent at pickup who mentioned their child still mouths toys
Share in your school's WhatsApp group (we have a template!)
Print a card for your therapy waiting room
Email your child's previous nursery - they'll know who needs this
Message that friend whose child was just diagnosed
Ask your SENCO to put it in the newsletter
Pin it at your local children's centre
For this project and support to reach those who need it most, we need to be visible everywhere. We are not celebrities or media experts, but if you know someone who is willing to host us on the radio, TV or their social media channel, we can volunteer our time to share the expertise and hopefully get this advice to those who need it.
Toy safety is a dynamic process, rather than a single rule. Each child, family, space, toy and situation is different, so I am not teaching rules, but skills for making safety decisions in a moment. Join me in training your risk-aware eyes, supportive hands and trusting heart.
