2007 has been the year of the recall. If you set your google alerts to pull out stuff on “recalls” your inbox would be full before the day is over, I’m sure of it. Some of the recalls, in my opinion are rather dumb. Take for example, the Bumbo seat which was pulled off shelves after a parent left their child unattended on top of a table in a Bumbo seat. The child got out of the seat and fell from on top of the table and sustained serious head injuries. However, I don’t believe Bumbo is responsible for the lack of common sense that seems to plague some parents these days.
On the other hand, there are recalls that I find very alarming like toys that have been made in China and contain far too much lead paint. These recalls were very alarming because almost everything that you buy in major department stores is made in China. . .and because all this time my kids have been chewing on things with lead in them.
So it was with great interest that I noted that a new safety guide was published today. It is designed, “not to scare parents but to give good information besides recall lists.” The website (which I’ve linked below), allows you to look up toys to see if they were tested for toxic chemicals and if they were, you’ll see the results. I was surprised to learn that many toys that are still sitting on shelves tested as having significantly higher than the amount considered ‘safe’. It also gives information on the types of toxic chemicals they are finding, as well as potential dangers. As was its goal, it is a very, very informative website and report.
I think parents of infants and young toddlers should pay extra attention to independent reports like these. Babies tend to explore with their mouths. You cannot protect your baby from every germ or hazard out there that they might possibly ingest, but making a few adjustments to your Christmas list can go a long way in making things safer for your little one.
Check www.HealthyToys.org to find our information on toys that you own or want to purchase.