Presbyterian | Your Story | Centennial Care | Fall 2021

www.phs.org/centennialcare 9 5 tips for buying safe toys Before you know it, your child will be writing their holiday wish list. But while kids want fun stuff, they need safe playthings too. Thousands of toy-related injuries happen every year. So keep these safety tips in mind on your next trip down the toy aisle: 1. Read labels carefully. Labels on toy packages can help you decide if the toy is safe for a child’s age and matches his or her interests and abilities. Make sure the label says the toy is nontoxic—meaning it doesn’t contain materials that could poison a child. 2. Look for potential hazards. For instance, loud toys can harm a child’s hearing. Strings or ribbons on stuffed animals can cause strangulation—remove them if the gift is for a young child. And small game pieces are OK for older kids, but they may choke a younger child if swallowed. 3. Think twice about flying toys. Toys that shoot things into the air can be a blast. But some parts may injure eyes or be choking hazards. 4. For young kids, avoid toys that need to be plugged in. Children under 10 are safer with battery-powered toys instead. Just remember to keep any button batteries—which might be swallowed—away from younger siblings. 5. Hand them a helmet too. Buying a riding toy? Don’t forget to include this safety gear for your skateboarding teen or tricycling tyke. Sources: American Academy of Pediatrics; Safe Kids Worldwide Heading off holiday stress There is no doubt, the holiday season is hectic— and it’s just around the corner. Give yourself a break this year with some of these stress-busting tips! If the thought of holiday to-dos has you feeling stressed, call your provider. They can help you find ways to manage your feelings and help you make sure your stress levels are not affecting your well-being. Sources: American Psychological Association; Office on Women’s Health Cross off at least one thing from your traditional to-do list. Give yourself permission to let go of something that seems like a chore, whether that’s baking batches of cookies or sending dozens of cards. Politely say no. Too much hustle and bustle makes the holidays seem more like a marathon and less like the joyful time it should be. Resist the pressure to accept every invitation that comes your way. Instead, only say yes to those that mean the most to you and your family. Carve out time for yourself. Don’t skimp on self-care. Recharge with a walk—exercise is a natural tension tamer that releases feel-good brain chemicals. Or treat yourself to a massage, soak in the tub, or relax with a favorite book or music that restores you. Pass on perfection. Lower your expectations for a holiday without hitches. It’s OK if kids get fussy at celebrations, and it’s not a big deal if the meal isn’t served right on time. Be kind to your wallet. If you overspend, chances are you’ll regret it later and feel anxious as bills come due. If finances are a concern, try to stick to what’s doable. Remind yourself that special time with family and friends is what matters most.