Toys: Hidden Dangers Lurking in Playtime

Toys are not always as safe as they seem.

Every year, millions of toys are sold in the United States, but many of them pose serious risks to children.

Harmful Chemicals and Choking Hazards

• Some toys contain harmful chemicals like lead and phthalates, which can be very dangerous for kids.
• Others have small parts that can be easily swallowed, leading to choking hazards.
• Water beads, for example, can swell up to 100 times their size when wet, causing injuries to thousands of children over the years.

Recalled Toys Still Available

The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has recalled numerous toys in recent years due to safety concerns. However, these recalled toys can still be found online, making it easy for unsuspecting parents to buy them.

• Researchers were able to purchase recalled toys like:
• Cra-Z-Art Gemex/Gel2Gem Jewelry Kits
• PlayTab Rollers Tile Toys
• These toys were recalled because they contained harmful substances or loose magnets that could be swallowed.

The Threat of Counterfeit Toys

Counterfeit toys are another major concern. These fake toys often do not meet safety standards and can be made with substandard materials.

• They are often cheaper, which makes them appealing to buyers, but they can pose serious health risks.
• Counterfeit toys can also be made under poor labor conditions and may even be linked to criminal activities like human trafficking.

Ensuring Toy Safety

To ensure the safety of children, it is crucial to buy toys from reputable sources.

• Parents should:
• Check for recalls
• Read genuine reviews before making a purchase
• Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true, as these could be counterfeit products

By being mindful of where they buy toys, parents can help protect their children from potential harm.