The Monthly Spotlight

Safe Toys and Gifts Month

December is National Safe Toys and Gifts Month. Over 200, 000 children were treated in U.S. Emergency Departments in 2022 due to toy-related injuries.¹ When choosing gifts for children, there are several things to consider to ensure they receive an enjoyable toy without risking injury. Younger children have small airways that can become easily obstructed with small parts from toys that are intended for older children.¹ Households with older siblings need to be conscious of keeping toys designed for older kids out of reach of smaller children.¹ Using manufacturers guidelines when choosing toys to purchase will help determine if an item contains parts that could become potential choking hazards. Button batteries, water beads and magnets pose risk of injuries to internal organs when accidently swallowed by children of any age. ^{1 2 3} Other things to consider are ensuring proper assembly to reduce the risk of loosened parts breaking off of toys and avoiding toys with cords or projectiles.^{1 2} Also wearing appropriate safety equipment such as helmets and elbow pads while riding wheeled toys such as scooters, roller skates or bikes can protect from critical injuries.⁴

1. UAB-Keep the Holidays Happy and Safe with these Toy Safety Tips
2. HealthyChldren.org-How to Buy Safe Toys
3. HealthyChildren.org-Water Beads: Harmful if Swallowed, Put in Ears
4. Safe Kids Worldwide-Toy Safety Tips