As the holiday shopping season approaches, experts from Yale New Haven Health and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection are urging parents to be vigilant about the safety of toys for their children. The warning comes as families prepare for gift-giving, with a focus on avoiding hazardous children’s products that could lead to emergency room visits.
“The holidays should be filled with excitement, not emergency room visits,” stated Dr. James Dodington, medical director of the Center for Injury and Violence Prevention at Yale New Haven Hospital. He emphasized the importance of assessing toy purchases, especially in light of the increasing prevalence of counterfeit items sold online.
Counterfeit toys pose significant risks as they often lack necessary safety testing, proper labeling, and quality materials. “Legitimate toy packaging will always include age recommendations, warnings, and clear instructions,” noted Dr. Lawrence Siew, medical director of the Emergency Department at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. Parents should be wary if packaging appears inconsistent or poorly printed, as these can indicate a product is counterfeit and potentially unsafe.
Clinicians stress the importance of matching toys not only to a child’s chronological age but also to their developmental readiness. Dr. Magna Dias, chair of pediatrics at Bridgeport Hospital, explained that children grow and learn at different rates. “A toy that’s too advanced can frustrate a child or lead to unsafe use, while a toy that’s too simple may not engage them,” she said. Selecting toys that align with a child’s abilities is vital for both safety and healthy development.
According to the most recent U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report, there were 10 toy-related deaths and an estimated 154,700 emergency department-treated injuries in 2023 for children aged 12 years and younger. The report underscores the serious risks associated with certain toys.
In addition to assessing toy suitability, experts are warning parents to consider the sound levels of electronic toys. Some can emit noise at volumes that may damage a child’s hearing over time. “Many musical or electronic toys can exceed safe decibel limits, especially when held close to a child’s ear,” cautioned Sam Schild, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital. Parents are encouraged to test toys in-store and to remember that if a toy seems loud to an adult, it is likely too loud for a young child.
Safety considerations extend beyond sound levels. Toys should have secure, screw-closed battery compartments, and parents should ensure that loose batteries are kept out of reach. If a battery is swallowed, immediate medical attention is necessary.
When gifting items such as scooters, skateboards, or bicycles, experts recommend including a properly fitted helmet. Parents should also inspect toys for sharp edges, seams, or moving parts that could cause cuts or pinches. Experts warn against giving young children toys with long cords or straps, as these can pose a strangulation risk. Small or detachable pieces remain a choking hazard, particularly for children under three years of age.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, non-motorized scooters alone accounted for one in every five toy-related injuries to children younger than 15 years. Bryan T. Cafferelli, commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, emphasized the need for safety during the busy shopping season. “Taking the time to ensure your gifts for kids are safe will ensure a happy holiday season,” he said.
To help parents navigate the safety landscape when selecting toys, experts recommend the following guidelines:
– Choose age-appropriate toys by checking label recommendations and understanding the child’s developmental stage.
– Ensure fabrics are labeled as flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
– Verify that painted toys use lead-free paint.
– Be aware of choking hazards in households with children under three.
– Check for strangulation risks from straps, cords, or strings.
– Avoid toys containing button batteries or small magnets that could cause serious injuries if swallowed.
– Test electronic toys for safe sound levels and avoid excessively loud items.
If parents encounter unsafe toys, they can file a product complaint by visiting ct.gov/DCP and following the directions to “File a Complaint.” Complaints can also be directed to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Federal Trade Commission.
By prioritizing safety, families can enjoy a joyous holiday season without the worry of toy-related incidents.
