By James Gottlieb, MD – Pediatrics at Boulder Medical Center
December is Safe Toys and Gifts Awareness Month, making it a perfect time for parents, grandparents, caregivers, and friends to double-check that the toys they give (and receive) are safe and age-appropriate. While eye injuries often receive attention during this season, toys can also cause cuts, burns, choking injuries, ingestion accidents, and falls. With a little planning, families across Boulder County can enjoy a safe, joyful holiday season.
Why Toy Safety Matters
Every year, thousands of children are treated in emergency departments for toy-related injuries, many of which are preventable. Colorado’s dry climate and the popularity of outdoor and sports-related gifts can increase the risk of injury without proper precautions.
December is a great time to pause, reassess what’s in your home, and make thoughtful choices about the gifts you bring into your child’s life.
Tips for Choosing Safe Toys and Gifts
Check Age Recommendations Carefully
Toy age labels reflect safety hazards—not skill level. For children under three, avoid toys with:
- Small parts that pose choking risks
- Button batteries, which can cause severe internal burns if swallowed
- Small magnets, especially high-powered magnets that can damage the intestines if ingested
- Long strings or cords, which pose strangulation hazards
Even for older kids, age recommendations help ensure toys match developmental readiness and motor skills.
Choose Non-Toxic, Well-Made Materials
Look for toys labeled:
- ASTM-certified
- Non-toxic paints and plastics
- BPA-free materials
This is especially important for toddlers who explore toys by mouthing them. If a toy feels flimsy, has a strong chemical odor, or pieces detach easily, skip it.
Inspect Toys for Sharp Edges, Projectiles, and Breakable Parts
Dr. Gottlieb highlights the particular risk of eye injuries from toys such as darts, slingshots, or other toys with high-velocity projectiles. Additional hazards to check for include:
- Brittle plastic pieces that can snap
- Sharp edges or exposed metal
- Toys that heat up during use
- Ride-on toys without adequate stability
If you’re giving sports equipment—such as baseball bats, hockey sticks, or archery sets—pair it with the appropriate protective gear.
Be Cautious with Chemical Handheld Toys
Certain paints, kits, or “science experiment” toys may contain ingredients that require supervision. Look for:
- Clear labeling
- Included safety gear (goggles, gloves)
- Adult supervision instructions
Look Out for Loose Batteries and Battery Compartments
Button batteries, often found in musical books, fidget toys, remotes, and light-up gadgets, can be dangerous if a child swallows them. Choose toys where the battery compartment is:
- Screwed shut
- Difficult for a child to open
Prioritize Active and Outdoor Toy Safety
With Colorado’s love of skiing, biking, scooters, and outdoor recreation, gifts often reflect an active lifestyle. Before using new outdoor gear:
- Ensure helmets and pads fit correctly
- Check for fall hazards
Set rules for safe play in driveways, sidewalks, and local parks
Consider the Child’s Environment
If toys will be shared among siblings, especially in mixed-age households, store small or hazardous items up high or in designated “big kid areas.”
Where to Check for Recalled or Unsafe Toys
I encourage families to regularly review toy recall lists—especially when cleaning out toys or purchasing secondhand items. Reliable resources include:
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recall database
- SafeKids.org — Toy and injury-prevention alerts
- The Toy Association — Regular safety updates
- HealthyChildren.org (American Academy of Pediatrics) — Safety guidance
- Prevent Blindness — Safe toy checklist
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission — Sign up for email alerts and recalls
What to Do If Your Child Has a Toy-Related Injury
Contact your pediatrician right away if your child experiences:
- An eye injury
- Swallowing or suspected swallowing of a small object or battery
- A cut, burn, or skin reaction
- A fall resulting in pain or limited mobility
- Persistent redness, swelling, or discomfort
About Pediatrics at Boulder Medical Center
Serving families in Boulder, Longmont, and Louisville, Colorado
Our board-certified pediatricians are dedicated to building lasting relationships with families and providing compassionate, high-quality care for newborns, children, and teens. We’re committed to helping every child grow, stay healthy, and thrive at every stage.