As families begin checking off their holiday shopping lists, it is important to make sure the toys and gifts we choose are not only fun, but safe. To help parents and caregivers navigate the season, Mikele Neal, RN, associate vice president, Women and Children’s services shares tips on what to look for and what to avoid when picking out presents for young children.
When choosing toys, Neal recommends paying attention to three essential parts of the label:
- Age range: These guidelines are based on safety testing, not just developmental ability.
- Safety warnings: Watch for notes about choking hazards, small parts, or magnets.
- Certification labels: These indicate compliance with federal safety standards, including those from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
“Age recommendations are there for a reason. They help make sure a toy has passed the right safety tests for your child’s stage,” adds Neal.
Some toy features can pose serious safety risks, especially for younger children. Neal advises steering clear of button batteries, high-powered magnets, and cheap or toxic materials like low quality plastics, peeling paint, or strong chemical odors.
“A good rule is to choose toys that feel sturdy and well-made,” Neal says. “If something seems flimsy or has a strong smell, it is better to leave it on the shelf.”
If you are looking for safer options, there are plenty of great choices. For infants and toddlers, Neal suggests toys that are soft, non-toxic, and promote development such as blocks, stackable toys, sensory shapes, and touch-and-learn activity toys. These options offer fun without the concerns of small parts.
Tips for relatives and friends
Not sure about a child’s developmental stage? When in doubt, experience-based gifts such as museum passes, child-friendly classes, or memberships are thoughtful and safe alternatives. And of course, do not hesitate to ask parents for guidance. They will appreciate the thought, and it helps ensure gifts are both safe and loved.
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