As the holiday shopping season approaches, experts from Yale New Haven Health and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection are urging parents to carefully evaluate the safety of toys before making purchases. Dr. James Dodington, medical director of the Center for Injury and Violence Prevention at Yale New Haven Hospital, stated, “The holidays should be filled with excitement, not emergency room visits.”
With an increase in counterfeit items available online, parents are encouraged to take extra precautions. Dr. Dodington emphasized that while most toys are safe when used correctly, counterfeit products may lack essential safety features, such as proper labeling and required safety testing.
Identifying Hazardous Toys
Dr. Lawrence Siew, medical director of the Emergency Department at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital, noted the importance of legitimate toy packaging that includes age recommendations, warnings, and clear instructions. Parents should be wary if packaging appears inconsistent or poorly printed, as these can indicate counterfeit products. Such toys often do not have the safety features necessary to protect children during play.
Clinicians are also advising families to consider a child’s developmental readiness when selecting toys, rather than relying solely on chronological age. Dr. Magna Dias, chair of pediatrics at Bridgeport Hospital, explained that children develop at different rates and a toy that is too advanced may lead to frustration or unsafe usage. Conversely, a toy that is too simplistic may fail to engage a child.
Additionally, safety concerns extend beyond the physical attributes of toys. According to the latest report from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, there were 10 reported deaths and approximately 154,700 emergency department-treated injuries related to toys for children aged 12 and younger in 2023. Pediatric specialists are particularly concerned about the sound levels of electronic toys, which can potentially damage a child’s hearing over time. Dr. Sam Schild, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital, pointed out that many musical or electronic toys exceed safe decibel limits, especially when held close to a child’s ear.
Preventing Toy-Related Injuries
When purchasing items such as scooters, bicycles, or skateboards, experts recommend including a properly fitted helmet as part of the gift. Parents should also examine toys for sharp edges, detachable pieces, or missing safety labels, which could pose risks of cuts or pinching. According to safety guidelines, young children should not receive toys with long cords or straps due to the strangulation risk. Small or detachable pieces remain a significant choking hazard, particularly for children under three years old.
The Consumer Product Safety Commission reported that non-motorized scooters accounted for one in every five toy-related injuries among children younger than 15 years old. Bryan T. Cafferelli, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, stressed the importance of ensuring that gifts for children are safe, especially as many parents complete their holiday shopping. He cautioned that lesser-known or off-brand toys sold through small or online retailers are more likely to be mislabeled.
Cafferelli provided a quick method for testing choking hazards: if a toy or any of its parts can fit inside a cardboard tube from a toilet paper roll, it poses a risk for small children who may put items in their mouths. “Simple steps like this can make a major difference in keeping families safe,” he noted.
To further ensure safety, experts recommend the following guidelines for toy selection:
– Choose age-appropriate toys by checking label recommendations.
– Ensure fabrics are labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
– Verify that painted toys use lead-free paint.
– Be vigilant for choking hazards, especially in households with children under three.
– Check for strangulation risks from straps, cords, or strings.
– Avoid toys containing button batteries or small magnets, which can be life-threatening if swallowed.
– Test electronic toys for safe sound levels and avoid excessively loud items.
– Match toys to a child’s developmental stage and abilities.
If unsafe toys are encountered, consumers are encouraged to file a complaint through the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection at ct.gov/DCP or with the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Federal Trade Commission. Ensuring the safety of toys can help families enjoy a joyful and injury-free holiday season.
