Essential Guidelines for Choosing Safe Toys and Gifts This Holiday Season
December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month, as declared by Prevent Blindness America. This is an important reminder to ensure that the toys you choose match the developmental stage, skills, and abilities of the child, especially for infants and children under three years old. This holiday season (and beyond), please keep the following guidelines in mind when selecting toys for children of all ages.
Always check the safety of toys before purchasing. Avoid those that shoot or have parts that can fly off. The toy should have no sharp edges or points and should be sturdy enough to withstand impact without breaking, being crushed, or being pulled apart easily.
For children with special needs, choose toys that stimulate different senses like sound, movement, and texture. Look for interactive toys that encourage children to play with others. Also, consider the size of the toy and the position a child would need to be in to play with it comfortably.
Before letting your child play with any new toys they receive, make sure they are age, skill, and developmentally appropriate. Always check labels to confirm the toy has passed safety tests. Look for labels that assure you the toys have passed a safety inspection – “ATSM” means the toy has met the American Society for Testing and Materials standards.
If gifting sports equipment, always include the necessary protective gear. For example, pair a skateboard with a helmet for safety.
Keep kids safe from lead in toys by: Educating yourself about lead exposure from toys, symptoms of lead poisoning, and what kinds of toys have been recalled; being aware that old toys may be more likely to contain lead in the paint; having your children wash their hands frequently and calling your doctor if you suspect your child has been exposed to lead.
Never give toys with small parts (including magnets and “button” batteries which can cause serious injury or death if ingested) to young children as they tend to put things in their mouths, increasing the risk of choking. If the piece can fit inside a toilet paper roll, it is not appropriate for kids under age three. Also, avoid toys with ropes, cords, or heating elements.
By following these tips, you can ensure the toys and gifts you give are both fun and safe for the children in your life.
Jackson County: Healthy People, Strong Community