Spreading Joy with Peace of Mind
We’re here to help you find some safe stocking fillers for children. The holiday season is a magical time, especially for little ones eagerly awaiting the treasures hidden in their stockings. As parents (6 kids in total between Sammy and Jennie!), we know that choosing stocking fillers that are safe, fun, and age-appropriate can feel overwhelming… especially when added to the never-ending Christmas list!
To help you out, we’ve put together some reminders of safe stocking filler options for small kids. These ideas are not only delightful but also thoughtfully curated with safety in mind. That’s the Ouch Pouch way!
General Tips for Choosing Safe Stocking Fillers
- Check Age Recommendations
Always look for the manufacturer’s age recommendation on the packaging. Toys designed for older children may contain small parts, sharp edges, or other hazards unsuitable for younger kids. - Avoid Choking Hazards
For children under 3, steer clear of items with small, detachable parts or toys that fit inside a toilet paper roll, as they may pose a choking risk. - Choose Non-Toxic Materials
Look for toys made from BPA-free plastic, lead-free paint, and non-toxic materials, especially for younger children who may put items in their mouths. - Prioritise Durability
Select items that can withstand rough play without breaking into sharp or hazardous pieces. - Inspect Before Wrapping
Before placing anything in the stocking, inspect it for loose parts, frayed edges, or any potential hazards such as button batteries, magnets or long strings or ribbon.
Safe Stocking Filler Ideas by Age Group
For Babies (0-12 Months)
Soft Teething Toys: Silicone or natural rubber teething rings are safe and soothing for little ones.
Fabric Books: Washable, chew-safe, and colorful fabric books with crinkly pages make great sensory gifts.
Rattles or Shakers: Opt for rattles that are too large to swallow and made of non-toxic materials.
Bath Toys: Simple, one-piece bath toys without a hole (to avoid mold issues) are a hit with babies. Our co-founder Sammy has written a blog post about why biofilm on bath toys is just so nasty here
For Toddlers (1-3 Years)
Chunky Crayons: Non-toxic, easy-to-grip crayons are perfect for budding artists.
Stacking Cups: These simple toys help develop motor skills and are great for the bath, too.
Wooden Puzzles: Large, sturdy wooden puzzles with no small parts are ideal for toddlers.
Musical Instruments: Maracas, tambourines, or xylophones designed for young children provide hours of fun.
Socks or Mittens: Adorable and practical, colorful socks or mittens make great fillers.
For Preschoolers (4-6 Years)
Stickers and Sticker Books: Kids this age love decorating with themed stickers. Choose sets that are non-toxic and easy to peel. If younger siblings are playing, make sure you are supervising sticker play so nothing ends up in the mouth!
Play Dough: Non-toxic play dough encourages creativity and is a safe option for this age group.
Mini Figurines: Ensure any figurines are large enough to avoid choking risks and are made of safe materials.
Storybooks: Small paperback books or early readers make excellent and engaging stocking fillers.
Flashcards: Educational flashcards for letters, numbers, or shapes can be fun and useful.
For School-Age Kids (7-12 Years)
Craft Kits: Mini craft kits for friendship bracelets, painting, or model-making are both entertaining and safe.
Card Games: Age-appropriate card games like Uno or Go Fish are great for family fun.
Science Kits: Small, safe experiments like growing crystals or making slime are perfect for curious minds.
Novelty Socks or Hats: Personalize their wardrobe with fun designs featuring their favorite characters.
What to avoid
Cheap Toys from Unknown Brands: While budget-friendly options are tempting, unregulated toys can pose risks due to poor quality or unsafe materials. If younger siblings are purchasing online, make sure you have heard of the brand before and have sussed out the country of manufacture.
Magnetic Toys: High-powered magnets can be extremely dangerous if swallowed. If you are wanting to buy magnetic tiles, make sure you purchase from a reputable brand who mention their safety testing procedures on their website.
Balloons: Deflated or broken balloons can be a choking hazard for younger kids.
Water beads: These are no longer recommended for children under the age of 5 years old. This is because if they are swallowed, they expand massively and block the bowel.
Battery-Operated Toys: If you do choose battery-powered items, ensure the battery compartment is secured with screws and cannot be easily accessed by a child.
