Did you know that each year, over 200,000 children are treated in emergency rooms for toy-related injuries? December is Safe Toys and Gift Month, just in time for the season of gifting. Now is the time to educate yourself about the risks associated with certain toys. For instance, if a toy is made of dangerous materials or is not age-appropriate, it is helpful for adults to be in the know to be sure that any gift you are giving, or your child receives brings worry-free fun.
Toy-Related Injuries That All Adults Should Be Aware Of
Without supervision, it can take just seconds for a child to become injured from a toy. The holidays are known for stretching our attention spans – so it is especially important this month to be aware of the risks children face.
Choking is one of the most common risks children face when it comes to new toys and is the fourth leading cause of accidental death in children under five years old. Young children have tiny throats and will often explore new objects by putting them in their mouths. If a child ingests or inhales a small piece of toy, they can quickly experience a blocked airway that leads to choking. Before allowing a child to play with a toy, be sure to inspect it properly, read any labels that come with its packaging, and ensure that the toy is age-appropriate.
Eye injuries are another common issue for children. Toys cause about 11,000 eye injuries in U.S. children each year, from mild abrasions to blindness. Hazardous toys include BB guns, paintball guns, or other toys fashioned after weapons. Toys containing rubber bands like slingshots and bungee cords are also known to cause eye injuries. Children that play with toys like these should wear protective eyewear and use caution.
Accidents involving a moving toy or sport are another major cause of injuries. Balls, scooters, bicycles, and skateboards are not risky on their own – but learning to ride a bike, chase a ball down the street, or attempt a skateboard trick can lead to severe injuries. Adults should supervise any outdoor play, especially if children are near a road with car traffic. A child that falls while rollerblading or riding their bicycle is bound to end up with cuts and scrapes – and risks breaking bones or getting a concussion. Be sure that children are properly equipped in safety gear, such as helmets, elbow pads, and knee pads before they take a ride on their new toy.
While it may not seem as important to look out for in December, supervising adults should also be aware of a child’s risk of drowning. Children can drown in just two inches of water, meaning that any toy that is played with water or in a pool or bathtub warrants extra adult attention.
Do Your Part to Protect Children This Holiday Season
Nobody intends to cause harm when they give a holiday gift. Be sure that you’re bringing happiness to children without putting them at risk by following these tips:
- Look closely at any toys you purchase. Watch out for toys with small, removable parts or crumbling material. Toys should not have sharp edges and should be durable enough to withstand impact without breaking into small pieces.
- Be sure to examine any new toys your child receives. Look for indications that the toy is age-appropriate and a good fit for their interests and skills. Toys labeled “ATSM” have passed inspection by the American Society for Testing and Materials.
- Avoid toys with small removable parts – especially button-size batteries. If a toy part can fit inside a paper towel roll, it is inappropriate for toddlers or children under three. Stay away from any crayons or markers that are not labeled “nontoxic.”
- Pair sports equipment with safety equipment. If a child receives a bicycle, they should also receive a helmet – without exception.
- Discard ribbons, wrapping paper, and gift bags immediately once a gift is opened.
- Make supervision a priority. Designate a dedicated person for childcare at every gathering, dinner, and family event this holiday season.
