GREEN BAY — With the final weeks of holiday shopping upon us, many will be searching for the perfect toy to give. It’s crucial to remember that toys can pose serious safety risks to children if not chosen carefully. According to a Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) report, close to 155,000 children 12 years or younger were treated in emergency rooms due to toy-related injuries in 2023.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday season, here are six essential toy safety tips:
Keep it age-appropriate: always check the age recommendations on toy labels. Toys intended for children under three should not have small parts as these could be a choking hazard. For older children, consider whether the toy could be accessed by younger siblings.
Provide the right accessories: riding toys, bikes and scooters is associated with the most injuries and deaths for children. Provide appropriate helmets and safety pads when gifting these types of toys.
Read the labels: many newer toys follow stricter safety guidelines but can still have cautions. Make sure to read all the labels and descriptions to understand what materials the toys are made with and if they contain any form of button batteries or magnets.
Check for wear and tear: whether you are purchasing brand new or buying used, evaluate the toys for missing parts, broken lights, wood splinters or loose thread.
Evaluate the seller: third party sites or retailers may leave out important information on a toy. Make sure that you are completely aware of what you will be receiving and who is manufacturing the item.
Check for recalls: be up-to-date on any toy recalls by referring to the CPSC website.
“Giving a child a toy should be a joyous moment, not one that could potentially lead to a trip to the emergency room,” says Dr. Caitlin Barr, Emplify Health by Bellin pediatrician. “Anyone buying toys this season should be vigilant and aware when selecting toys to ensure they are age appropriate and safe.”
In addition to finding the appropriate toy, it’s important to also keep in mind the packaging that comes with it. Zip ties, plastic fasteners and even plastic bags can be easily consumed by a small child if left out in the open. Dr. Barr adds, “if a gift contains a lot of potentially dangerous packaging, consider removing the toy ahead of time or ensuring that when the toy is open, all the pieces of the packaging have been properly disposed of.”
By following these tips and staying informed, community members can help prevent toy-related injuries, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable holiday season for children. If you are unsure what types of toys are appropriate for your child, please reach out to your child’s pediatrician.