Putting toy safety at the top of your Christmas list

  • Shelly Webb
  • December 5, 2010
  • 262
                        
Everyone has a Christmas list. Some of us have a list of things we want; and some of us have a list of things we want to buy for someone else; and of course, some of us have both. When it comes to kids, for the most part, they have a list of things they ‘want’ to find under their Christmas tree on Christmas morning. Unfortunately not every toy or gift on a child’s list is safe or age appropriate. It’s wise for adults to make sure they know what they’re buying and for whom when they begin their Christmas shopping. According to local Extension Educator, Kate Schumaker MS, RD, LD, of the Ohio State University Extension Office of Holmes County more than 100,000 children are treated in hospital emergency rooms each year for toy-related injuries. Choking tops the list, but there are many other incidents that occur each year that sends families to ER’s in a panic. “Choking is the most common toy-related injury,” Schumaker said, “with falls (especially from riding toys) coming second. Most toy-related injuries are minor, but that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do what we can to prevent them.” Schumaker advises people to consider several important things when selecting a toy, the number one being the child’s age. “If you’re buying gifts for children you need to follow the age recommendations on the packaging of the toy or gift,” Schumaker said. “The recommendations are on the package for good reason. A manufacturer usually doesn’t label a toy “Not recommended for children under three years of age,” because they think a two-year-old won’t have fun with the toy, but because the toy may have small parts and could pose a choking hazard to younger children.” When it comes to choking hazards a good rule of thumb to follow to avoid any toys that are intended for children under the age of three that have small parts that are smaller than 1 ¼ inches in diameter and shorter than 2 ½ inches in length. A small gadget known as a “parts tester” can actually be purchased at some toy and baby specialty stores to determine safety size. “Another thing to pay attention to is strings, straps or cords longer than 7 inches on any toy,” Schumaker added. “This length of string, strap or cord could pose a strangulation hazard. Also projectile toys, including darts, and toys with sharp points or edges can cause eye injuries or cuts so be careful with these types of activities.” Toys containing any electrical component, especially a heating element, are not recommended for children under the age of eight and toys that produce loud noise, including high volume radios, iPods, MP3 players and CD players can permanently damage a child’s hearing. Volume type players are at the top of the list for many children and teens this year. Explaining to your child how dangerous it can be to their hearing if the volume is turned up is important. Sometimes just letting kids know there’s a danger will help them be safe. Bicycles, skateboards and scooters are fun gifts that will keep kids busy enjoying the outdoors once the weather breaks, but Schumaker reminds us that giving these gifts require a couple more presents to accompany them. “Remember to include the appropriate safety gear if you’re buying bikes, skates, skateboards or scooters,” she said. “You should consider purchasing a helmet, elbow- and knee-pads, and/or reflective clothing/stickers to your gift. This will enhance the safety of the gift and keep the child prepared for an accident.” You should never purchase a toy that has been unwrapped. Also take time to inspect all toys on a regular basis for damage and other hazards, such as broken pieces or sharp edges. If you find broken toys it’s a good idea to discard them immediately. It’s also a smart idea to check with the parents if you’re buying gifts for children. Some kids have allergies or other issues and running your gift idea past mom and dad can help guide you to the perfect present. Most pre-school age children are curious and at an age when they’re minds are developing and growing. Buying gifts that enhance and encourage learning is a wonderful idea for the pre-school child. Pre-school children enjoy drawing, painting and pretending, giant coloring books, play-dough, paint sets and dress up clothes are big hits. Older kids (age 6-8) may enjoy kites, skates, building blocks, board games, jigsaw puzzles, dolls, simple cameras and sleds. Children a little older (age 8-12) may like musical instruments, card games, hobby materials, camping equipment, construction sets, sports gear and bicycles. Regardless of what neat ideas you come up with or what toys you find for the children on your list, make sure you keep safety at the top of the list. And be sure to keep the boxes the toys come in…chances are the boxes will be a bigger hit than the toys themselves!


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