7 tips for giving safe toys and gifts to kids

It’s fitting that December is designated as National Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month, given the season’s many gift-giving opportunities. Of course, safe gifts and toys for kids are important all year. Keep these guidelines in mind to help you choose the safest items for children of all ages.

Know where to start

There are a few simple things gift-givers can do to make receiving toys safe and fun for every child.

1. Avoid toys with small, removable parts

While you’ve probably heard this tip before, keep in mind that some “small” parts might not seem obvious. For instance, small button batteries can be a choking hazard — and you may be surprised at the number of little ones who can remove them. If any piece of a toy, from magnets to batteries to other parts, can fit inside a toilet paper roll, it’s not suitable for a child under age three.

2. Read all toy labels thoroughly

Our experts urge you to consider these factors before purchasing gifts for a child:

• ASTM seals: If a toy has one of these labels, it indicates the toy meets safety standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM).
• Age guidelines: Follow the manufacturer’s age recommendation to match the child’s maturity level.
• Detailed instructions: Understand how the toy works and whether it may be too complex for the child (or even an adult!) to figure out.
• Materials list: Check to see that the toy is made from non-toxic plastics, paints and fabric. Make sure it’s also BPA-free, phthalate-free and lead-free.

3. Check for recalls

Before you buy gifts, it’s a good idea to visit the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) website to check for recalled toys or children’s products.

4. Inspect how the item is made

Are there sharp edges or long cords? Toys for children under age eight are prohibited from having hazardous, sharp points. When it comes to items with long cords or strings, the teen years are an appropriate age for using them without adult supervision. By then, most kids are old enough to know how to use them properly.

5. Check items even if they aren't "toys"

Art supplies like crayons and markers should be labeled “child-safe” and non-toxic. Ideally, if you give a child sports equipment, such as a scooter, bike, skates or skateboard, also include items like helmets and pads.

6. Choose what a child with a disability would safely enjoy

Consider toys that appeal to different senses, such as movement, sound and texture. Think about the toy’s size and how a child would need to sit, stand or position themselves to play with it.

7. Skip toys that are red flags

Take a pass on gifts that make loud noises that can damage hearing, are made from flammable or toxic materials or are poorly made knockoffs that don’t show they’ve been safely tested.

Expert care for your child

These guidelines can promote safe play habits, help children understand how to use toys safely and encourage conversations about smarter gift choices any time of year.

Still, kids are kids — and accidents happen. If your child needs medical attention that isn’t an emergency but can’t wait for a doctor’s appointment, HCA Florida Healthcare urgent care clinics are here to help. Whether it’s stitching a small cut, checking a minor rash or removing a foreign object from the ear, we’re ready with the personal attention and family-focused care you deserve.