Safe Toys, Happy Holidays: Tips for Safe Toys & Gifts Month

December in Central Texas means twinkling lights, blue-sky “winter,” and a whole lot of gift-giving. But before you wrap up that shiny new toy for the kids in Georgetown, Round Rock, Cedar Park, Austin, New Braunfels, San Marcos, or San Antonio, let’s talk safety.

December is Safe Toys and Gifts Month, a national reminder to slow down, read the labels, and make sure that the gifts we’re giving bring joy—not unexpected injuries. At Dowd Insurance Agency, we care deeply about keeping Texas families protected, not just through great insurance coverage, but also through everyday safety tips that help you avoid preventable claims.

Here’s how you can help ensure your holiday gifting stays merry, bright, and accident-free.

1. Read the Labels Like a Pro

Those little icons and age ranges on toy packaging matter more than most people realize. An age recommendation isn’t a suggestion—it’s part of the product’s built-in risk assessment.

What to look for:

• Age-appropriateness for the child receiving the gift
• Clear safety instructions
• ASTM certification (American Society for Testing Materials), which confirms the product meets national safety standards

A few seconds of checking now can prevent a lot of heartache later.

2. Watch for Harmful or Hazardous Materials

Not all toys are created equal. Some may contain harmful materials like lead or unsafe plastics, especially if they come from unknown or unregulated manufacturers.

Safety essentials:

• Avoid toys with detachable small parts for children under 3
• Inspect packaging for material warnings
• Research brands that prioritize safety testing

If a toy looks questionable, it probably is—and no holiday surprise is worth the risk.

3. Pair the Fun with the Safety Gear

Some gifts come with a little extra excitement—and a little extra liability. Bikes, scooters, sports equipment, and anything requiring speed or balance should always be paired with proper protective gear.

Examples:

• New bike? Add a helmet.
• Rollerblades or scooters? Wrist guards, knee pads, and elbow pads.
• Sports gear? Make sure the right protective equipment comes along for the ride.

And hey—if someone else in the family wants to chip in on the safety gear, even better!

4. When in Doubt, Keep It Simple

Classic toys—think wooden blocks, books, craft sets, and board games—are low-risk, high-fun options for kids of all ages. They’re also less likely to lead to insurance claims… just saying.

Keeping Central Texas Families Safe All Year Long

From New Braunfels down to San Antonio and all the way up I-35 to Georgetown, Texas families count on Dowd Insurance Agency to help protect what matters most. Safe Toys & Gifts Month is a great reminder that safety starts with the small things—like choosing the right gift.

And if you ever have questions about homeowners insurance, liability coverage, or how to better protect your family, we’re just a call or click away.