It is so important to remember that when buying gifts for those children on your holiday Christmas shopping list, you need to stay within the age guidelines on the manufacturer’s box. Even though you may think that your child or grandchild acts “so much older than that,” the age ranges are put there for a reason. Kids will be kids, and just as soon as your eyes drift away to the dog who is eating cookies from the table, you may find that the child who never puts anything in their mouth, decides that the new toy they opened…fits right in there and is fun to chew on.

Here on some tips for you to remember:

Children can suffocate with plastic wrap, and deflated balloons. Make sure you dispose of all plastic and paper wrapping pieces once the gifts have been opened, to keep little fingers away from the pieces.

All bicycles and other riding toys, even the toy cars, can tip over and cause injuries. Make sure that you buy the protective wearing gear when you buy the toys! It will be a very sad child who opens up a great gift, to find that they have to wait to ride in it until they get the safety gear that goes with it.

Magnets also need to be kept away from children. They look inviting because they cling to other metal objects “like magic.” Have you noticed what happens next? Kids turn those magnitized things over, figure out what is holding it to the other object, and either try to loosen the magnet or find another way to use the toy.

Parents, you can’t be around your child and their toys all the time. Pick toys that will be entertaining, and educational, but most of all spend time with the kids and their new toys. The time you spend with them will be their favorite part. Never underestimate the importance of the time you dedicate to your children. You teach them more than any toy out there!

Have a wonderful holiday season and have fun! “Now, let’s get going!”  xo Sally

For more information: http://child-familyservices.org/december-is-national-safe-toys-and-gifts-month/