A twelve year old girl choking to death on a marshmallow seems impossible. Choking while playing a game at school makes it seem ridiculous. However, recently on Oprah two parents told the sad story of this happening to their daughter. Now the parents are determined to warn as many adults and children as possible of the dangers of playing "Chubby Bunny."

Chubby Bunny is a "game" wherein kids stuff as many marshmallows as possible into their mouths as they say Chubby Bunny. They are not allowed to swallow. The game ends when the child can no longer stuff any more marshmallows into her mouth without gagging or saying Chubby Bunny.

As parents we constantly warn against the dangers of choking on food. "Don't talk with your mouth full. Don't laugh while eating. Don't run with food in your mouth." Who would have thought we needed to warn our children about such a game as Chubby Bunny?

The danger with Chubby Bunny experts (as seen on the show) say is that the marshmallow melts as it warms in the mouth. The melting marshmallow begins to seep down the throat covering the airway until it seals it off and there is no way to extract the marshmallow. Warn your children not to play Chubby Bunny or any game involving food consumption.

One of our goals is to regularly remind adults that safety is an ongoing process. We readily think of our homes, cars and yards when considering safety issues. Games are an area that may not get much consideration (unless it's football, soccer, or any other organized activity). Safe and fun games are an important part of our children's lives and also allow us to have quality time with them. With this in mind, we have authored a new book entitled Children's Games Made Easy. This book is great for parents and daycare providers who want a quick idea for some fun time. Topics include finger games, songs, circle games, tag games, alphabet games and more. Here's a fun and safe game to try:

Toilet Paper Roll Bowling
Take 10 empty toilet paper rolls and set them up on their ends in a "V" shape. Use a rubber ball in place of a bowling ball. You can use towels or books to make the lane. Have the children roll the ball down the lane, trying to knock over the "pins."

Whether at home or at school, it's important that we talk to our children regularly about potentially dangerous situations so they will be prepared to be their own safety monitor when we are not there to protect them.

Check out our new book, Children's Games Made Easy, here!