Safe Toy Gift Tips for a Joyful December

The holidays bring so much joy—especially when picking out gifts for the kids in our lives. Whether you're shopping for your own children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, or family friends, it’s easy to get swept up in the excitement. But with December being Safe Toys and Gifts Month, it’s also the perfect time to pause and think about how we can keep those celebrations safe and worry-free.

With all the fun of holiday shopping, some important safety details can be overlooked. A little extra attention now can help ensure the kids you love enjoy their gifts without risk.

Helpful Safety Tips to Guide Your Holiday Shopping

Here are some thoughtful reminders to keep in mind while choosing presents this season:

  • Watch out for small parts: For little ones under 3, small pieces can pose a serious choking hazard—especially items like beads, removable eyes, or tiny accessories.
  • Gift an experience: Sometimes the best presents aren’t things at all. Museum passes, zoo trips, music lessons, or art classes can create memories without adding clutter.
  • Stay up to date on recalls: Before purchasing, check recent toy recalls and consider signing up for email alerts so you’re always informed.
  • Don’t forget practical gifts: Safety gear like helmets, knee pads, or even books can be just as meaningful—and often more useful—than traditional toys.
  • Look for quality: High-quality toys made from sturdy materials are less likely to break into potentially dangerous pieces.
  • Match age and ability: Make sure to check age recommendations on packaging and think about the child’s developmental stage when selecting gifts.

Why Safety Matters

In 2023 alone, U.S. emergency departments treated more than 154,700 toy-related injuries among children under 12, including 10 tragic fatalities. Non‑motorized scooters accounted for roughly 53,000 of those injuries—more than one in five ER visits involving toys. The numbers from previous years show similar trends, reminding us that toy safety isn’t a small issue.

Eye injuries are another concern. Thousands of kids under 14 experience toy-related eye injuries each year, and emergency rooms report that 1 in 10 eye injuries in children are caused by toys—especially projectile items like dart guns or BB-style toys.

Gifts to Reconsider

While many popular holiday picks seem appealing, some may not be the safest choice:

  • Digital devices: Consider screen-time guidelines, parental controls, and the quality of apps available.
  • Secondhand toys: Older toys may not meet current safety standards and could contain hazards like loose magnets or outdated paint.
  • Homemade gifts: Handmade items can be wonderful but should avoid small detachable parts or materials that aren’t kid‑safe.

Age-by-Age Guidance

  • Infants & toddlers: Choose large, sturdy toys without cords or detachable pieces.
  • Preschoolers: Spark creativity with blocks, dress‑up items, and safe art supplies.
  • Older kids: Consider active gear, books, or games that encourage learning and family connection.

Safety Beyond the Gift Itself

  • Batteries & packaging: Dispose of plastic films, twist ties, and small packaging pieces immediately.
  • Assembly matters: Improperly assembled toys can break or malfunction—read instructions and check for sturdiness.
  • Supervision: Even the safest toys can pose risks without an adult nearby. Think scooters, ride-ons, and water toys.

Positive, Safe Alternatives

  • STEM & learning toys: Encourage imagination, creativity, and problem‑solving.
  • Practical and fun items: Safety gear or life jackets can be personalized with favorite characters or colors.

Building Long-Term Safety Habits

  • Teach kids to check: Make it a routine to look for loose parts or damage together.
  • Smart storage: Discard broken toys promptly and make sure toy chests are ventilated with child‑safe lids.
  • Toy rotation: Reducing clutter makes it easier to spot hazards and keeps toys fresh and exciting.

As you wrap up your holiday shopping, remember that thoughtful choices can make a lasting impact. A little awareness goes a long way—helping ensure that the season stays as joyful and safe as possible for every child on your list. Enjoy the festivities, embrace the magic, and keep safety at the heart of your giving.