Make Holiday Gifting Safe and Joyful This December

Thomas Gabryszewski

The holiday season brings with it the excitement of gift-giving, especially for the little ones in our lives. However, amidst all the joy, it's easy to overlook vital safety considerations, especially during December, which is Safe Toys and Gifts Month. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or friend shopping for children, taking a moment to consider safety can make all the difference.

Key Safety Tips for Gifts

  • Match Age and Ability: Always check the packaging for age recommendations and consider the child’s developmental stage to ensure the toy is appropriate.
  • Practical Gifts: Include helmets, safety gear, or books as thoughtful and useful presents that protect and educate.
  • Watch Out for Small Parts: For children under three, small parts can be a severe choking hazard.
  • Quality Matters: High-quality toys are less likely to break into dangerous pieces, which ensures both fun and safety.
  • Stay Updated on Recalls: Regularly check for toy recalls to keep up with safety standards and consider signing up for email alerts.
  • Consider Gifting Experiences: Passes to museums, zoos, music lessons, or art classes provide memorable and clutter-free alternatives, making unique holiday gifts.

Why Safety is Crucial

In 2023, there were approximately 154,700 toy-related injuries among children aged 12 and younger, with 10 tragic deaths. Many injuries are related to small parts, non-motorized scooters, and eye injuries from projectile toys. Staying informed and cautious about toy safety is crucial in preventing these incidents.

Gifts to Reconsider

  • Digital Devices: Keep screen-time in mind and ensure parental controls and safe apps are in place.
  • Secondhand Toys: These may not meet today’s safety standards, with risks like lead paint and loose magnets.
  • Homemade Gifts: Though heartfelt, ensure DIY toys don’t have small, detachable parts or unsafe materials for kids.

Safety Beyond the Toys

  • Batteries & Packaging: Safely dispose of packaging materials that can be choking hazards.
  • Proper Assembly: Ensure toys are assembled correctly, checking sturdiness before the fun begins.
  • Supervision: Even the safest toys can pose problems without adult oversight, such as ensuring scooters are used with helmets.

Positive Gift Alternatives

  • STEM & Learning Toys: Gifts that develop problem-solving skills or creativity are both educational and fun.
  • Safe and Personalized: Safety gear like life jackets can be made special with favorite colors or characters.

A bit of attention to safety ensures the holiday season is both joyful and worry-free. Remember, your thoughtful gift choices can have a lasting, positive impact, allowing you to enjoy the festivities with peace of mind.