It’s that time of year—when wish lists are written in crayon, shopping carts are overflowing, and the magic of the holidays feels more real than ever. But while we’re focused on finding the perfect gift, there’s one list every parent needs to see: the list of toys that could send their kids to the ER.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, last year alone, 231,700 toy-related injuries were treated in emergency rooms. And kids under 4? They accounted for 36% of those injuries.
But here’s the thing: holiday gifting isn’t just about avoiding the obvious risks. It’s also about rethinking what safe play looks like, from hidden hazards in trendy toys to small dangers we might overlook. Before you hit “buy now” or wrap up that shiny new toy, let’s talk about how to keep the joy—and skip the risks—this season.
Related: Lovevery recalls 47,000 Slide & Seek Ball Run toys due to choking hazard
10 holiday toy risks you might not know about
1. Nonmotorized Scooters: The #1 Injury Culprit
Scooters topped the charts last year, accounting for 23% of all toy-related injuries. Falls and collisions lead to broken bones, bruises, and ER visits.
Safety Tip: Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads are non-negotiable. Stick to flat, supervised areas.
2. Water Beads: Fun to Play, Dangerous to Swallow
These colorful sensory toys expand when wet—but if swallowed, they can block a child’s intestines, causing life-threatening complications.
Safer Option: Swap water beads for textured blocks, play dough, or kinetic sand.
3. Flotation Toys Aren’t Safety Devices
Inflatable rings and floats offer a false sense of security. Last year, two children tragically drowned while using flotation toys unsupervised.
What to Do: Use well-fitted life jackets and stay within arm’s reach of kids in water.
4. Small Toys and Bouncy Balls: A Choking Hazard
Tiny figurines, bouncy balls, and even small parts from broken toys pose choking risks for kids under 3.
Quick Test: If it fits through a toilet paper roll, it’s too small for toddlers.
5. Button Batteries: Small but Deadly
Found in light-up toys and gadgets, button batteries can cause internal burns within hours if swallowed.
Be Battery Smart: Choose toys with secure battery compartments. For toddlers, avoid battery-powered toys altogether.
6. Toy Chests with Heavy Lids
Heavy lids can trap children inside, causing suffocation. It’s a tragic but overlooked risk.
Fix It: Remove lids, install safety hinges, or use open-top bins for storage.
7. Magnetic Toys: Hidden Dangers Inside
High-powered magnets can attract each other if swallowed, tearing through internal organs and requiring emergency surgery.
Safer Play: Stick to large, non-magnetic building blocks for young kids.
8. Plastic Packaging: A Hidden Choking Risk
Sharp plastic edges, zip ties, and small packaging parts can cause injuries during unboxing.
Plan Ahead: Unbox and assemble toys before gifting to remove hazards.
9. Stuffed Animals with Small Parts
Buttons, ribbons, and small decorative features can easily detach, turning beloved plushies into choking hazards.
Safe Choice: Opt for well-stitched, simple designs without loose parts.
10. Ride-On Toys: No Brakes, Big Risks
Ride-on toys rarely come with brakes, increasing the risk of falls or collisions on slopes and uneven ground.
Safety Focus: Stick to flat, smooth surfaces, and supervise closely during playtime.
Safer shopping made simple
Balancing fun and safety doesn’t have to be stressful. Here’s how to shop smarter this season:
- Follow the age labels. They’re there for a reason—toys with small parts aren’t safe for little hands.
- Look for safety features. Secure battery compartments, durable designs, and non-detachable small parts are musts.
- Skip risky trends. Water beads and high-powered magnets might look fun but come with hidden dangers.
- Unbox before gifting. Remove sharp packaging and small pieces so kids can play safely right away.
- Check for recalls. A quick search on the Consumer Product Safety Commission website ensures the toy hasn’t been recalled.
Related: Experts warn: These 5 holiday toys could land your child in the ER—here’s how to keep them safe
Let’s make joyful memories (not ER trips)
The holidays are meant to be magical. The squeals of delight, the torn wrapping paper, the hours spent playing—that’s what we want to remember. Not bumps, bruises, or worse.
By staying informed, making thoughtful choices, and taking simple safety steps, we can protect what matters most: our kids’ health, happiness, and safety.
So here’s to a holiday season filled with joy, laughter, and peace of mind—because that is the greatest gift of all.
You’ve got this, mama. Let’s keep them safe and smiling this season!
Sources:
- Holiday toy safety. Consumer Product Safety Commission. 2023. “Toy-Related Deaths and Injuries Calendar Year.”
