Did you know?

December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month

According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, hospital emergency rooms treated an estimated 251,700 toy-related injuries in 2010 throughout the United States. Of these injuries, 72 percent were to people younger than 15 years of age. In the year 2007 alone, toymakers recalled over 19 million toys worldwide due to safety concerns, such as lead paint and small magnets.

The desire to get children their favorite toys may cause shoppers to forget the various safety factors associated with them. It is critical to consider the safety and age range of the toys—in other words, give age-appropriate toys.

Prevent Blindness America has declared December as Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month. The group encourages people to consider if the toys they wish to give not only suits the age but also the individual abilities of the child who will receive it, especially for infants and children under age three.

The Mayo Clinic System encourages shoppers to follow these guidelines for choosing safe toys for all ages:

  • Inspect all toys before purchasing. Avoid those that shoot or include parts that may fly off.
  • When purchasing toys for children with special needs, try to choose toys that may appeal to different senses, such as sound, movement and texture. Consider interactive toys to allow the child to play with others and think about the size of the toy and the position a child would need to be in to play with it. Consult the “AblePlay” website at http://www.ableplay.org/ for more information.
  • Be diligent about inspecting toys your child has received. Check them for age and corresponding skill level, as well as developmental appropriateness.
  • 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.
  • Gifts of sports equipment should always be accompanied by protective gear. For example, if you give a skateboard, also give a helmet.
  • Keep kids safe from lead in toys. Educate yourself about lead exposure from toys, symptoms of lead poisoning and what kinds of toys have been recalled. Old toys may be more likely to contain lead in the paint. Make sure your children wash their hands frequently and call your doctor if you suspect your child has been exposed to lead.
  • Do not give toys with small parts to young children, as they tend to put things in their mouths and may choke. Magnets and “button” batteries can cause serious injury or death if ingested. If the piece can fit inside a toilet paper roll, it is not appropriate for kids younger than three.
  • Do not give toys with ropes and cords or heating elements.
  • Do not give crayons and markers unless they are labeled “nontoxic”.
  • Any toy that is labeled “supervision required” must always be used in the presence of an adult. Keep toys meant for older children away from younger ones. 
  • Always save the warranties and directions for every toy. If possible, include a gift receipt. 
  • Repair or throw away damaged toys as soon as possible. Do not leave them laying around where a child could accidentally get hurt.
  • Inspect toys for sturdiness. Children’s toys should be durable, with no sharp edges or points. The toys should also be able to withstand impact. 
  • Dispose of plastic wrapping material immediately as they may have sharp edges.

To see if a toy has been recalled for any reason, visit the Consumer Product Safety Commission website.  You can also sign up for safety recall alerts by email while you’re there.

Enjoy a happy holiday season and keep your children safe!