How To Gift Wisely: Safety, Joy And Stewardship In The Holiday Season

“A wise man feareth, and departeth from evil: but the fool rageth, and is confident.” — Proverbs 14:16, KJV

As December unfolds and gift-giving grows in momentum, this observance invites us to more than generosity—it invites us to stewardship. The toys and gifts we choose reflect our love, our wisdom, and our responsibility toward the children and families we serve.

The American Public Health Association and other agencies mark December as Safe Toys & Gifts Month, reminding us that many toy-related injuries and hazards can be prevented by one thoughtful hour of care.  

“Provide things honest in the sight of all men.” — Romans 12:17, KJV

Safe gifts are honest gifts—they honour the recipient, honour the Giver of life, and reflect care beyond the package.

Why Safe Gifts Matter

• The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission reports thousands of toy-related injuries each year, many of which are preventable.  

• Children under 5 are especially vulnerable to choking hazards, small-part ingestion, or items with sharp edges.  

• The holiday season is high-volume for gifting and therefore higher risk of inappropriate toys or overlooked safety warnings.  

In other words: Joy without wisdom can lead to regret. But joy with wisdom honours both children and God.

Biblical Examples of Guarding What We Give

• The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) Though not about toys, this parable teaches us to attend to others’ needs with care and protection.

• Moses’ instruction concerning the tabernacle (Exodus 25:1-9 and onwards) Gift-offering with precise specification, ensuring that what is given honours God’s standard.

• The Proverbs 31 woman (Proverbs 31:10-31) She chooses well, considers needs, invests with excellence—not waste. Her gifts and work reflect wisdom and care.

As Christian women leaders, we mirror that wisdom when selecting gifts—not simply for delight, but for wellness and wholeness.

Five Ways to Practice Safe Gift-Giving Today

1. Check Age-Appropriateness and Labels
   Look for the age range, choking hazard warnings, and “ASTM” certification mark (American Society for Testing and Materials).  

2. Inspect for Small Parts, Magnets, Button Batteries
   Avoid items with tiny detachable bits for children under 3. These are leading causes of accidental ingestion.  

3. Assure Quality and Durability
   Buy gifts made of sturdy, non-toxic materials, with no sharp edges or easily breakable pieces.  

4. Include the Safety Gear or Instruction
   If you gift sports equipment, bikes, or ride-ons—include protective gear like helmets, pads. Also teach safe use.  

5. Teach Gift Use and Supervise When Needed
   Sit down with the child (or family) and show how to use the gift safely. Remind family of supervision when age-appropriate.  

Encouragement for the Heart

“The Lord loveth righteousness and justice: the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord.” — Psalm 33:5, KJV

When we give with wisdom and righteousness, our gifts reflect the goodness of the Lord. What we choose today becomes part of a child’s memory, safety, and trust. Let your leadership—whether as a coach, friend, sister or mother figure—set the standard for safe joy.

Reflection Questions

1. When I shop for gifts, do I pause to evaluate safety as well as excitement?

2. Have I considered the younger siblings or less-able children in the home when selecting a gift?

3. Do I teach the child (or family) how to use the gift safely, or simply hand it over?

4. If a gift is second-hand or less expensive, have I inspected it for wear, broken parts, or recall notices?

5. How can I influence others (family, friends, clients) this season to choose safe gifts and spread awareness?

Truth Declaration

“I will give gifts with wisdom, love, and protection. I honour the lives You have made by choosing items that nurture growth, joy, and safety. My offerings will reflect Your care, and through them I steward well what You entrust to my care.”

May this December be a season of safe giving, uplifting hearts, and preserving lives—may the joy we spread be matched by the care we choose.