Choosing Safe Toys as Gifts
By Brandi Goodman
December gets celebrated as Safe Toys and Gifts Month for good reason. Too many people purchase toys that aren't safe for children to use. As you start your Christmas shopping, be on the lookout for safer toy options to give as gifts. You want a happy, healthy, and safe holiday for everyone.
Buy for the Age
Toys are intended for specific age groups. Don't give a Lego set with lots of small pieces to an infant. They may end up swallowing a piece or putting it up their nose. Buy for the age and choose carefully so you can avoid potential mishaps.
Avoid Toys That Shoot or Fly
Some toys that look cool may not be so cool after a child gets hurt because of them. Toys that shoot or have parts that fly off are not safe options. Kids can easily end up getting poked in the eye by these parts and damaging their eyesight. If you do want to gift these choices, give them to an older child who understands safety and will know how to work them well.
Don't Purchase From Sketchy Sites
Many people make their purchases online. Don't purchase gifts off sketchy sites or ones that ship from other countries. The toys most likely will not adhere to the same safety standards set in the states. You should make sure the toy you buy has an ASTM label. The American Society for Testing and Materials passes toys after a safety inspection.
Gift Sports Equipment and Safety Gear
Sure you could give a kid a hockey stick and puck for a gift. They'll want to play with it right away though whether they have the safety gear available or not. Anytime you gift sports equipment you should be sure to gift the safety gear necessary to use it as well. Give the stick and puck but also provide a helmet and knee and shin pads at the very least.
Look for Non-toxic Labels
Crayons, markers, paint sets, and other artistic gifts are great for kids. Just be sure to look for non-toxic labels. Younger children are more likely to put these things in their mouth; avoid gifting anything using toxic chemicals that could do them harm.
Plenty of great gifts exist that you can feel good about giving. Skip the unsafe choices and look for the safer options that aren't going to affect anyone's health or well-being.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Peachtree City, Ga.