Have a safe 2026!

Together we are stronger

December has come to an end, but the holidays have not. The New Year festivities are still in full swing. As we prepare to return to our daily lives, it is important that we return safely without introducing hazardous materials into our homes.

December was Safe Toys and Gifts Month.

It is an annual observance dedicated to promoting the safety of toys and gifts for children, particularly during the holiday season. It serves as a reminder to parents, carers, and gift-givers to choose age-appropriate and safe toys to ensure the well-being of the children who receive them.

Started by the nonprofit organization Prevent Blindness, National Safe Toys and Gifts Month focuses on raising awareness about the importance of selecting toys and gifts that meet safety standards and align with a child’s age and developmental stage. The month aims to prevent accidents and injuries caused by inappropriate or hazardous toys, especially when gift-giving is most common.

Too often, accidents involving children and toys occur and may result in eye injuries. Each year, thousands of children ages 14 and younger suffer serious eye injuries, including blindness, from toys, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Approximately one in ten children’s eye injuries caused by toys end up in the ER.

Last Christmas, a little boy unwrapped a toy gun with excitement written all over his face. Minutes later, a sharp plastic piece snapped off and struck his eye. What began as laughter ended in tears, an emergency hospital visit, and weeks of treatment.

That Christmas memory will never be the same — for the child or his parents.

For many families, these injuries also mean unexpected medical bills, emotional distress, and long-term consequences.

These injuries are more likely to occur just after the holidays when children are less supervised and spend more time with their toys.

Buyers have good intentions but as a parent you have to remember:

Not every toy is safe. Not every gift is age-appropriate.

HOW WE CAN PREVENT TOY-RELATED INJURIES

• Check labels: Always follow age recommendations and safety warnings.

• Avoid small parts: Especially for children under 3, choking hazards are silent and deadly.

• Inspect toys carefully: Look for sharp edges, loose parts, exposed wires, or poor construction.

• Read reviews and ask other parents or carers.

• Think about their age, abilities, and level of supervision.

• Choose educational and development-friendly toys: Safer toys often encourage creativity, learning, and growth.

• Spread awareness: Talk about toy safety in your homes, schools, churches, and online spaces.

May the Joy of the holidays and the new year continue uninhibited in your homes and families this new year.

Happy new year from Eustar and Gold.