Overview

While most toys on store shelves are safe, we continue to find toys that pose a range of safety hazards to small children. As a result, parents and other child-care providers need to remain vigilant in order to prevent toy-related deaths and injuries.

Recently, WISPIRG released our 24th annual Trouble in Toyland report.  The findings in this year’s report highlight the need for continued improvement in order to protect American’s children:

•    Despite a ban on small parts in toys for children under three, there are still toys available that pose serious choking hazards. Between 1990 and 2008, at least 196 children died after choking or asphyxiating on a toy or toy part; three died in 2008 alone.

•    Some toys tested exceeded 85 decibels sound level, which is the volume threshold established under American Society for Testing and Materials standards. Almost 15 percent of children aged 6 to 17 show signs of hearing loss.

•    Earlier this year, toys and other children’s products containing more than 0.1% of phthalates were banned. Still, WISPIRG found children’s products that contained concentrations of phthalates up to 7.2%.

•    Lead was severely restricted in toys earlier this year, but WISPIRG researchers found lead-laced toys on store shelves. Lead has negative health effects on almost every organ and system in the human body. One preschool book contained lead paint far above the new limits and WISPIRG notified the CPSC.