12/15/2025
Did you know tens of thousands of kids end up in the emergency room each year due to toy-related injuries?
A big factor is gifting toys that aren't age-appropriate, especially for younger children. Toys that are too advanced can pose serious safety risks.
Making the right choice for holiday and birthday gifts is your challenge, but we can help make it easier. Here are five quick guidelines to keep kids safe:
💠Watch for Small Parts: Keep toys with small parts away from toddlers and small children. They put things in their mouths, and it's a major choking hazard.
💠Check the Age: Always select toys that match a child's age, abilities, skills, and interest level. Too advanced = potential safety hazard.
💠Look for "ASTM": The letters "ASTM" on the packaging mean the product meets national safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials. Always read warning labels.
💠Stuffed Animal Check: Make sure the eyes, noses, and other small parts are securely fastened to reduce the risk of choking.
💠Inspect Construction: Choose toys made of durable materials with no sharp edges or points. Avoid toys that shoot or have parts that fly off.
Prioritize safety. Before you buy, check the Consumer Product Safety Commission’s website for any recalled toys or alerts.