Black Friday and the official kick off of the holiday season is just days away and I have already started my shopping. However, with three kids, I am being a lot more vigilent this year and paying closer attention to the marketing and packaging of the toys my kids want – especially in light of all the recent recalls. Not only am I checking the items my kids have asked for against the CPSC recall list, I am also making a conscious effort to buy toys with fewer plastic parts.

The CPSC is urging parents to do the same. They recently put out a two page release of guidelines and tips for parents. Among the biggest toy hazards cited by CPSC:

• Riding toys, skateboards and inline skates that could cause dangerous falls for children.
• Toys with small parts that can cause choking hazards, particularly for children under age 3.
• Toys with small magnets, particularly for children under age 6, that can cause serious injury or death if the magnets are swallowed.
• Projectile toys such as air rockets, darts and sling slots for older children that can cause eye injuries.
• Chargers and adapters that can pose burn hazards to children.

The Toy Industry Association has also sponsored a site called ToyInfo.org where parents can go for the latest information on recalls, toy safety, toy selection tips and more.

The Oppenheim Toy Portfolio also has a great list of the Ten Myths About Toy Safety That Every Parent Should Know including:

• Toys Made in the USA are guaranteed to be lead-free.
• The government bans all types of lead in toys.
• Embedded lead is not really a problem.
• Buying from a large reputable store guarantees safety.
• Buying from a big toy company guarantees safety.
• Buying from a small mom and pop store guarantees safety.
• Buying from small manufacturers guarantees safety.
• Lead is only a problem with metal toys.
• Plush Toys are guaranteed to be Safe.
• Lead in Toys is a Fixable Problem.

You’ll have to go to their site to find out which are true, which are false and why.

Shop smart this season – it will be better for your kids, your wallet and the environment!

Posted on November 20th, 2007 by Char
Filed under: Recalls, Toy Safety