With the abundant joys of giving and receiving during this holiday season, it is fitting that December is observed as Safe Toys and Gifts Month. Despite the humble origins of holiday observance, this time of year
has come to represent an important thing for many children: TOYS. However, like many well-intentioned products, not all toys are created equal. In the hands of little ones, toys typically elicit delight and curiosity- two important and
well-deserving experiences for children- but it is crucial that each and every package opened is inspected and approved by parents and caregivers to ensure the safety of its recipient.

In the most recent documented report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were an estimated 240,000 toy-related injuries treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments and seven toy-related
deaths among children younger than 15 years old. While the CPSC closely monitors and regulates toys- which must follow CPSC standards if made in or imported into the United States after 1995- parents and caregivers must still be diligent about
choosing which toys and activities they will allow into the space of little loved ones.

The following are ways to practice caution when choosing and inspecting toys:

Avoid the obvious hazardous toys for children

  • Toys containing small parts are not suitable for children under 3 years of age. While most adults are aware of this guideline, do not be tempted to buy something with the intent to watch children’s play “like a hawk”. While play for
    children in this age group should always be supervised, children can place small hazardous parts in their mouths in the blink of an eye.

Follow guidelines

  • Remember that toys’ recommended ages are not based on a child’s intelligence or maturity, but on safety guidelines. If a child is not yet at the minimum age, do not buy it- or open it- until that age is reached.

Trust your gut

  • You know your child best. Especially for the consideration of parents of children with special needs, age guidelines listed on toys are based on developmental norms for children. Your child, despite falling within the listed age limit, may
    not yet have the cognitive, language, fine motor and/or sensory skills necessary to make the toy safe or functional. Choose toys that will challenge your child to hone and maintain critical learning skills, but safety as a consideration must
    be at the forefront.

Take responsibility

  • You may want to purchase or receive a toy that is not yet age-appropriate for a child for the educational gains you think your child can reap from it. If this is the case, take responsibility in directly facilitating play and in storing
    this toy in a space that your child cannot reach when play is finished.

Be communicative with family and friends

  • If family or friends ask what they can get your child, be open about your qualifications for safe toys. Many gift-givers, though well-intentioned, may not notice or may disregard age limits listed on toys. Be sure to mention that these
    limits are important to you.

Be gracious

  • If, despite your discussion with loved ones, your child receives a toy that is not age-appropriate, consider that the act is likely not malicious or disrespectful to you. Kindly thank the recipient, return it or store it away for future
    use, and kindly