Brian Hickey | Dec 15 2025 16:00
The holiday season is upon us, a time filled with joy, laughter, and the excitement of gift-giving. As we dive into the festive spirit, it’s crucial to remember that December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month. This is an opportunity to blend our excitement with attention to safety, ensuring that our gifts bring joy without unintended risks. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or a friend choosing something special for a child, being mindful of safety considerations is key.
Key Safety Tips for Thoughtful Gift-Giving
- Match age and ability: Always check toy packaging for age recommendations. Consider the child’s developmental stage to ensure the toy is suitable.
- Look for quality: Choose high-quality toys. They're less likely to break into small, dangerous pieces.
- Watch out for small parts: For children under three, small parts pose a serious choking hazard. Avoid toys with detachable small pieces.
- Stay up to date on recalls: Check for any toy recalls and sign up for email alerts. This simple step can prevent accidents before they happen.
- Don’t forget practical gifts: Safety gear like helmets can be a lifesaver and make meaningful gifts. Books also offer lasting value beyond play.
- Gift an experience: Passes to museums or art classes provide memorable, clutter-free enjoyment and learning opportunities.
Why Safety Matters
In 2023, U.S. emergency departments treated approximately 154,700 toy-related injuries in children aged 12 and younger. Tragically, this included 10 deaths, often linked to choking or entrapment. Non-motorized scooters alone accounted for over 53,000 of these injuries. Being aware and taking simple precautions can make a big difference in preventing such incidents.
Types of Gifts to Reconsider
- Digital Devices: Be mindful of screen-time concerns and make sure parental controls are in place.
- Secondhand Toys: Older toys may not meet current safety standards and could contain hazards like lead paint.
- Homemade Gifts: While thoughtful, ensure DIY toys are made without small detachable parts or unsuitable materials.
Beyond the Gifts: Holiday Safety Tips
- Batteries & Packaging: Dispose of packaging and twist ties to prevent choking.
- Assembly Matters: Follow assembly instructions carefully to avoid injury from improperly set-up toys.
- Supervision: Always oversee children's play, especially with toys like scooters that require safety gear.
As the holiday season unfolds, a focus on safety ensures that our efforts in choosing gifts lead to happiness rather than harm. By making thoughtful choices, you can have a positive, lasting impact on the lives of your loved ones. Enjoy this wonderful time of year while keeping safety at the forefront.