December is a season of giving—and for children, that means toys, games, and gifts galore! But not every toy is created equal when it comes to safety. That’s why December is recognized as National Safe Toy and Gift Month—a time to remind parents, caregivers, and loved ones to choose gifts that are both fun and safe.

From choking hazards to toxic materials, understanding how to shop smart can make all the difference in preventing injuries and giving kids the gift of safe play. Let’s dive into why this month matters and how you can protect the little ones in your life this holiday season.

Why National Safe Toy and Gift Month Matters

Toys are meant to bring joy, learning, and creativity—but they can also cause harm if not chosen wisely. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC):

Over 152,000 toy-related injuries were treated in U.S. emergency departments in 2022.
The majority of injuries involved children under age 15, especially those under age 5.
The most common injuries are cuts, bruises, eye injuries, and choking.

Many of these injuries are preventable with proper guidance on age-appropriate, well-made, and non-toxic toys.

What to Look For When Choosing Toys

When shopping for children, safety begins with the label. Here are essential tips to follow:

Read Age Labels

Always match the toy’s recommended age range with the child’s actual age and developmental level. A toy that’s safe for a 10-year-old may be dangerous for a toddler.

Check for Small Parts

Toys with small pieces pose choking hazards—especially for children under age 3. If a part can fit through a toilet paper roll, it’s too small.

Look for Safety Certifications

Choose toys labeled with ASTM D-4236 (for art supplies) or other marks showing compliance with safety standards.

Avoid Toys with Strings, Cords, or Magnets

Long strings can cause strangulation in infants. High-powered magnets can cause internal damage if swallowed.

Choose Non-Toxic Materials

Toys made with lead paint or harmful plastics can have long-term health impacts. Opt for BPA-free and phthalate-free products.

Safety Tips for Toy Packaging

Don’t forget that even packaging can pose risks:

Discard plastic wrap, twist ties, and packing peanuts immediately.
Be cautious with button batteries and silica gel packs, which are often found in packaging and pose choking or poisoning risks.
Check for sharp edges or points on new toys that might not be immediately obvious.

Tech Toys: Smart Choices for a Digital World

If you’re gifting electronics, tablets, or smart toys this season, be mindful of:

Privacy risks: Some smart toys collect data or have cameras/microphones.
Screen time limits: Choose options that promote learning or co-play.
Safe chargers and batteries: Only use recommended charging devices to avoid overheating.

Parental controls and supervised use can help balance tech fun with safety.

Safe Gift Ideas by Age Group

Here are some safe and enriching gift ideas tailored by age:

Infants & Toddlers (0–3 years):

Soft cloth books
Large, textured building blocks
Musical toys with volume limits
Push-and-pull toys without cords

Preschoolers (3–5 years):

Wooden puzzles
Pretend play items (doctor kits, kitchens)
Crayons and washable paints (non-toxic)
Balls larger than their mouths

School-age Kids (6–12 years):

Science kits with supervision
Sports gear with protective equipment
Art sets with ASTM labels
Board games with age-appropriate pieces

Teens:

Books, journals, or educational games
Gift cards for experiences or hobbies
Safety-certified headphones or tech accessories

Safety Doesn’t End After Unwrapping

Even after the gifts are opened, keep safety top of mind:

Assemble toys properly and dispose of all packaging.
Supervise playtime, especially with younger children.
Store toys safely to avoid trips or falls.
Inspect toys regularly for loose parts, damage, or wear.

And remember—kids learn through imitation. Model safe play habits by joining in!

Toy Recalls: Stay Updated

Even reputable brands sometimes recall products due to safety concerns. Stay informed by:

Visiting www.recalls.gov
Subscribing to product safety alerts
Registering new toys or gadgets that come with warranty cards

Quick action on recalls can prevent injury or even save lives.

Spread the Word: Community & Giving

This holiday season, consider giving back safely:

Donate new, unwrapped toys that meet safety guidelines.
Share safe gift guides with friends, schools, or parenting groups.
Organize a toy safety awareness event or host a toy drive with clear safety instructions.

The more people who know, the more children we protect.

Final Thoughts

National Safe Toy and Gift Month is about more than shopping—it’s about mindful giving. Whether you’re wrapping presents, choosing stocking stuffers, or donating to those in need, you have the power to make a child’s world both joyful and safe.

By following simple guidelines, checking labels, and staying informed, we can all help make this season one of safety, smiles, and unforgettable memories.

For more resources visit:

MDS: School-Aged Speech Success: Best Toys and Games for Language Development

MDS: Top 10 Toys for Toddler Speech Development | SLP-Approved Play Ideas

MDS: Helping Children with Social Communication Skills