Do you know why recommended ages on toys are important? Have you ever heard about a child choking on a small game piece, magnet, or battery and wondered how you can prevent that from happening to children in your life? Or, maybe you’re giving a gift to someone else’s child this year, and you just don’t know where to start.
According to SafeKids.org, 188,400 children under the age of 15 years were seen in emergency departments for toy-related injuries in 2011. More than a third of those injured were children 5 and under.
During the holidays, it’s important to be aware of the toys and gifts you’re giving, so you don’t cause accidental harm. December is National Toy and Gift Safety Month, and we’re participating by sharing a few key ways that you can purchase safe gifts for the children in your life. Read the top safety tips below!
1) Make sure the age range is right for the child
The age range isn’t just on the packaging to be helpful when you’re choosing a toy. It’s letting you know what ages will be able to safely play with that gift. If you choose a toy that is beyond the age range of the child, there could be small pieces or other objects that could accidentally harm a child not in the labeled ages. Play it safe by staying within the age range.
2) Search for the ATSM label
The “ATSM” label means that the toy or gift has passed a safety inspection and has met the American Society for Testing and Materials standards.
3) Check for choking hazards
Maybe the toy you’re looking at doesn’t have a suggested age range on it. Here’s a good rule from HealthTradition.com, if the parts of the toy can fit inside a toilet paper roll, it is not appropriate for kids under age three. You should also avoid giving young children any parts with magnets or “button” batteries, as young children often put things in their mouth.
4) Buy appropriate safety gear with sports equipment
If your child has their heart set on a bike, scooter, roller skates or other sporting equipment this year, make sure you also buy them the appropriate safety gear. When they use their new gifts, make sure that their safety equipment fits properly and is on at all times.
5) Inspect gifts before giving them to children
Run through this quick inspection before giving your gift to a child:
- Is the gift easily broken by an impact or force?
- Does the gift have lead?
- Does this gift have ropes and cords or heating elements?
- Is the gift toxic? (Gifts like crayons should be labeled non-toxic)
If you answered yes to any of these questions, do not give it to a child!
Wishing you happy shopping and happy holidays!
We hope that your holiday season is a safe and healthy one. Should you or your family members become ill during this cold season, consider making us your primary care provider and make an appointment at (number).
Resources:
https://child-familyservices.org/december-is-national-safe-toys-and-gifts-month/
