December Tips for Safe and Joyful Gift-Giving
Andrew Sciolla

The holiday season is filled with joy and the excitement of gift-giving. As we enter December—recognized nationally as Safe Toys & Gifts Month—a little planning goes a long way toward keeping kids safe while still making the season magical. Whether you’re a parent, grandparent, or family friend, these tips will help you choose thoughtful gifts with safety in mind.

 

Key Safety Tips for Smart Gift-Giving

  • Watch out for small parts. For children under 3, small parts are a serious choking hazard. Always check age labels and look over loose pieces, batteries, or magnets.

  • Match age and ability. Go beyond the age number—consider the child’s coordination, strength, and play setting (apartment vs. yard).

  • Gift an experience. Museum or zoo passes, skating sessions, music or art lessons create memories without adding clutter.

  • Look for quality. Sturdier toys are less likely to break into sharp pieces. Inspect seams, wheels, and attachments.

  • Stay current on recalls. Check recent recalls before you buy and consider signing up for alerts so you’re notified right away.

  • Don’t forget practical safety gear. If you’re gifting a scooter, bike, skates, or sports equipment, include the right-fit helmet and pads. Kids’ eyes and faces are frequent injury sites.

Why Toy Safety Matters

  • In 2023, U.S. emergency departments treated an estimated 154,700 toy-related injuries among children 12 and younger.

  • Across all ages, non-motorized scooters accounted for the largest share of injuries among specifically identified toys—about 23%. For kids 12 and under, scooters were linked to an estimated 27,400 injuries (roughly 18%).

  • The head and face were the most commonly injured body regions (about 45% of cases), and lacerations were the top diagnosis; most patients were treated and released.

  • There were 10 toy-related child deaths reported in 2023, underscoring why careful selection and supervision matter.

  • Vision experts note that thousands of children suffer serious toy-related eye injuries each year—some resulting in permanent vision loss—so eye protection and toy choice matter.

Gifts to Reconsider (or Handle With Care)

  • Digital devices: Think through screen-time rules, parental controls, and where/when devices may be used.

  • Secondhand toys: Older items may not meet current standards or may have worn parts (choking/lead/magnet risks). Verify model-specific recalls first.

  • DIY/homemade toys: Avoid small, detachable parts; use child-safe materials and finishes.

Holiday Safety Beyond the Gift

  • Assembly matters. Follow instructions, tighten fasteners, and secure batteries or magnets.

  • Toss risky packaging. Remove plastic wraps, twist-ties, ribbons, silica packs, and broken bits immediately.

  • Supervise early play. Even “safe” toys like scooters require helmets and an adult nearby—especially on sidewalks and driveways.

Positive, Kid-Approved Alternatives

  • STEM & learning kits that build problem-solving and creativity.

  • Experiences (passes, lessons, classes) tailored to the child’s interests.

  • Safety gear that feels special—personalized helmets, reflective jackets, or sport-specific eye protection.

Why Call Your PHL Lawyer

If a toy or children’s product causes harm—through defects, missing warnings, or unsafe conditions—we help families pursue answers and compensation. We’re a Philadelphia-based firm focused on justice, integrity, and results, handling personal injury and product-related cases throughout the region.

Offices:
Center City — 100 S. Broad St., Suite 1910, Philadelphia, PA 19110
Warminster — 720 Johnsville Blvd., Suite 850, Warminster, PA 18974

 

Phone: (267) 328-5245

Bottom line: Choose age-appropriate, well-made gifts; add the right safety gear; and keep an eye on recalls. With a few thoughtful steps, you can wrap up a joyful, safe holiday season.