Toy Safety Awareness Month: A Crucial Reminder for Parents this November

As the festive season approaches, families everywhere are gearing up for holiday shopping — and with it, the task of finding safe and appropriate toys for children. This November marks the launch of Toy Safety Awareness Month, a campaign driven by The Toy Association which aims to educate parents about the challenges of selecting safe toys. A recent survey indicates that 80% of parents now find it increasingly difficult to distinguish between genuine toys and counterfeits, a worrying trend that underscores the importance of vigilance when purchasing items for kids.

Understanding the Risks of Counterfeit Toys

Counterfeit toys pose significant safety risks. The survey conducted by The Toy Association revealed that nearly 90% of parents expressed concern over the safety of fake toys. Alarmingly, despite these concerns, over half of parents (58%) admitted they would consider buying toys from unrecognized online sellers if they were cheaper than the authentic brand. This highlights a critical issue: discount prices often come with dire compromises regarding the safety and quality of the products being sold.

The survey also revealed that counterfeit toys can lack compliance with stringent U.S. safety standards, which often include comprehensive regulations surrounding small parts, magnets, and materials used in toys. Joan Lawrence, the 'Toy Safety Mom' and senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs at The Toy Association, stresses the importance of recognizing these risks. She encourages families to prioritize authentic products from reputable brands, emphasizing that safety should never be sacrificed for a bargain.

Practical Tips for Safe Toy Shopping

As families prepare for the holiday season, here are some essential toy safety tips from The Toy Association:

1. Buy Authentic: Always purchase toys from known brands or recognized retailers. If a product isn't available, wait for it to re-stock rather than opting for a counterfeit.
2. Check Age Labels: Age labels are critical safety indicators provided by child development experts. They guide parents on what toys are suitable for their child's age, particularly for those under three, who are at risk from choking hazards presented by small parts.
3. Be Aware of Smart Toys: Many toys now incorporate internet-connected technologies, adding educational features. While these toys must meet federal safety standards, parents should ensure they understand the privacy policies and security settings of such products. It's important to enable parental controls and manage any connected features to enhance children's safety.
4. Avoid Non-Toy Gifts: Items such as desk accessories or home decor can pose safety risks if they contain small batteries or high-powered magnets. Parents should focus on purchasing designated toys to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Spreading Awareness

The Toy Association urges gift-givers to take safety seriously this holiday season. By sharing resources and safety tips on social media platforms with the hashtags #ToySafetyAwarenessMonth and #PlaySafe, families can educate themselves and spread awareness within their communities. The PlaySafe.org website serves as an excellent resource for parents and guardians, offering further advice regarding safe toy shopping practices and the importance of identification against counterfeits.

The Toy Association has been at the forefront of promoting toy safety since its establishment in 1916. As advocates for children's safety and positive development through play, they continue to enhance public understanding of the essential role that safe toys play in childhood development. Their dedication has not only led to the development of rigorous safety standards but has also contributed significantly to the economic growth of the U.S. toy industry.

As we head into the holiday season, let's prioritize the safety and well-being of our children by being responsible consumers and well-informed gift-givers. This November, let Toy Safety Awareness Month serve as a vital reminder to ensure that every toy purchased is one that can be trusted — for the joy of play and the safety of our children.