‘Tis the season! It is officially the holiday season and Christmas is just around the corner. With holiday retail shopping expected to hit $859 billion in sales (NRF) and an overwhelming amount of holiday toy advertisements, it can become stressful when picking out the best holiday gifts for your little ones. This holiday season, Sentido Health wants to assist you with providing 5 tips that are sure to help you narrow down the best, most safe holiday gift options.

5 TIPS FOR SAFE TOYS:

1. Read the label carefully – Not only are toy companies adequate at including a suggested age range for the children’s toys, they also provide a list of “materials” that have been used to create the product. While looking for an age range that is suitable for your child of choice, make sure the product list also emphasizes “non-toxic.” Specifically, try to refrain from purchasing toys that include lead as this can result in damage to your child’s nervous system.

2. Check children’s toy recalls – Toy recalls can happen for various reasons. Some reasons include toxic or unsafe chemicals, while others are due to the toy not operating properly. Go to https://www.recalls.gov/ to check holiday toys today.

3. Choose basic over electric – A general rule of thumb is to not allow children under the age of 8 to operate electric toys due to safety concerns that can be mechanical, thermal, or electrical. If your little one is set on a specific electric toy this holiday season, feel free to check out CPSC “Safety Alert” for more safety information on operating electric toys. https://www.cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/287.pdf

4. Avoid “Smart Toys” – Internet connecting smart toys have recently taken the market by storm through talking dolls and wifi connectable smart cars. Cyber security expert, Monica Eaton-Cardone, warns that these smart toys leave room for cyber hacking as well as can put your child’s privacy and safety at risk.

5. Don’t hesitate to read the reviews – Reading children’s toys reviews can be helpful when it comes to safety, quality, and satisfaction.

**Bonus Tip! When it comes to picking out a holiday gift for a child with special needs, pay close attention to the child’s needs as well as their likes and dislikes. Choose a toy that will encourage interaction as well as help them with growth and development.**