Age, skills, interests key in picking gifts for children

Friday, November 20, 2015

As the holidays shift into warp speed, store aisles and Internet websites will be jammed with shoppers hunting for the perfect gift for the youngest members on their gift lists. Keeping a few toy safety guidelines in mind can help dictate which surprises ultimately end up in neatly wrapped boxes with colorful bows on top.

“When you’re shopping for children, the main things you want to keep in mind are their ages, interests and skill levels,” said Gina Peek, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension consumer and housing specialist. “All toys are not for all children.”

For instance, balloons, magnets and small balls and other toys with little parts can pose dangers to children, especially those 3 or younger. In fact, according to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, two of the leading causes of toy-related fatalities are choking or aspirating on toy parts.

“Deflated and broken balloons can be a choking hazard, especially for kids younger than 8,” Peek said. “The same goes for play sets with magnets. Kids, particularly those age 6 or younger, could be seriously hurt, or even die, if they swallow a magnet.”

Meanwhile, when it comes to riding toys such as bikes, scooters, skateboards and in-line skates, do not forget to also pick up helmets and safety gear, which should be sized to fit and worn properly.

Beyond those basic safety measures, even with the excitement of the season, it is important to remember to immediately discard plastic wrappings and other packaging once toys are opened.

“The packaging and plastic film on toys and other products can be a choking hazard. Be sure to inspect toys first and remove any plastic or protective film before letting the kids enjoy the gift,” Peek said.

Finally, adults should oversee the charging of any batteries because chargers and adapters can represent burn hazards, especially for children.

“Carefully read the instructions and warnings that come with battery chargers,” (Last name) said. “Some don’t have mechanisms to prevent overcharging.”

Families can and should monitor toy recalls by visiting the CPSC website at www.cpsc.gov. To search product safety reports or to report a dangerous product or product related injury, parents can go to www.SaferProducts.gov or call the CPSC hotline at 800-638-2772 (TTY 301-595-7054).