Are toy recalls cramping your kids’ playtime style? Before you stock up, here’s what you need to know.
According to the
U.S. PIRG (the federation of state Public Interest Research Groups), the top 6 toy safety issues are “
choking hazards, magnetic toys with powerful magnets, noise, strangulation hazards, toxic chemicals, and lead.”
The last 2 threats are the most problematic because they’re the toughest to expose. “Toxic chemicals” include
phthalates (which leach from toys with PVC and can disrupt hormone development) and
lead (which shows up on painted toys and can cause developmental delays).
Play it safe:
Keep up on recalls: Sign up for the government’s
free recall emails, check a
list of all recalled toys, and read Consumer Reports’
toy safety blog.
Shop smart: Check toy labels for age appropriateness and
chemicals of concern, and use
HealthyToys.org’s product search to determine a toy’s safety level.
Buy from the best merchants: Our favorites?
Oompa,
Planet Happy Kids and
Moolka.
