The holiday season is a wonderful time filled with family gatherings, festive decorations, and plenty of treats. But the season also brings certain risks for kids, from choking hazards to potential injuries with holiday décor. Here are some simple safety tips to keep your holiday joyful and your kids safe.

Decorations and Lights

Holiday decorations are often bright and appealing to children, but they can also be hazardous. If you have a Christmas tree, make sure it’s securely anchored so that it can’t tip over. Ornaments should be kept out of reach, especially small ones that could be swallowed or sharp ones that could break. Glass ornaments and those with small parts are particularly risky for young children, who might see them as toys.

Holiday lights add sparkle, but they also come with electrical dangers. Inspect all light strings for frayed wires or broken bulbs. Keep cords tucked away and ensure outlets are not overloaded. Battery-operated candles are a safe alternative to real candles, which can pose fire hazards.

Safe Gifts and Toy Selection

Choosing safe toys is essential for preventing injuries. Every year, nearly 200,000 children under the age of 15 years are seen in emergency departments for toy-related injuries; more than 500 every day. Always check age recommendations on toys and follow them closely. Small parts are a choking risk for children under age three, so avoid toys with small, detachable pieces. Be cautious with button batteries found in many toys and gadgets; if swallowed, these can cause serious internal injuries. Keep toys with strings, cords, or magnets out of reach as well, as they can be strangulation or choking hazards.

When setting up electronic gifts, follow all safety guidelines for batteries, and supervise young children when they’re using these toys. Toys with sharp edges or loud noises can also be risky and may frighten young children.

Holiday Treats and Food Safety

Holiday treats are a big part of celebrations, but certain foods pose choking risks. Avoid giving children under age four foods that are round, hard, or sticky, such as whole grapes, nuts, and hard candies. Be cautious with sticky treats like marshmallows, as they can also be difficult for young kids to chew and swallow safely.

If your child has food allergies, be extra vigilant about what they eat at parties or gatherings. Cross-contamination is common during the holidays, so ask about ingredients in homemade dishes, and consider bringing allergy-safe snacks for your child.

Travel Safety

If you’re traveling, ensure your child’s car seat is properly installed and suitable for their age and size. During long drives, take breaks to allow kids to stretch, eat, and stay comfortable. If you’re flying, bring plenty of snacks and entertainment to keep little ones occupied and calm.

Managing Holiday Stress

Holidays can be overwhelming for children with all the excitement and changes to their routines. Stick to a regular sleep and meal schedule as much as possible to help kids feel more secure. Prepare your children for gatherings by explaining what to expect and be mindful of sensory overload from loud sounds and crowds.

By taking simple precautions, you and your family can enjoy all the holiday season offers and keep things merry and bright. Wishing you and your family a happy, healthy holiday!Hadeel Naqib, M.D., is with UPMC Pediatrics and sees patients at UPMC Wellsboro, 15 Meade St., Wellsboro. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Naqib, call 570-723-6380. For more information, visit UPMC.com/PediatricsNCPA