As Christmas approaches, we always want the kids in our lives to feel joy when they open up their presents. Sure, it may not be what the holiday is about, but that doesn't mean we can't want them to be happy!
It seems kids are getting harder and harder to buy for, and we often want to get the them "coolest" item around, but is it safe?
World Against Toys Causing Harm, or WATCH, is a consumer safety group which rates toys based on their pieces, construction, and other elements. They have been releasing toy safety lists for over four decades and pride themselves on keeping kids safe.
"We don't need a testing lab to know that's a strangulation and entanglement hazard," WATCH president Joan Siff said.
WATCH has released their list for 2017 and are recommending all parents heed their warnings, especially when so much shopping will be done online this year.
1. Hallmark "Itty Bittys" Baby Stacking Toy
WATCH says this toy comes with no age recommendation or warnings, but could lead to choking injuries.
"The Consumer Product Safety Commission issued a recall notice on August 31, 2017 due to “fabric hats and bows that can detach, posing a choking hazard," writes the organization. They noted, however, that these toys are still available to purchase online.
2. Pull-Along Pony
The age recommendation on the toy is "12m+", but it comes with no safety warnings.
"Despite the industry’s standard requiring strings on playpen and crib toys to be less than 12 inches in length, manufacturers are still permitted to market “pull toys” such as the “Pull Along Pony” with a cord measuring approximately 19 inches," WATCH says. "No warnings are provided."
3. Wonder-Woman Battle Action Sword
The toy has a rating for ages 6+, and includes "small parts" warnings.
"Young children are encouraged to bear arms, like a popular comic book and movie character, to engage in “[f]ighting alongside men in a war to end all wars,” writes WATCH. "The rigid plastic sword blade has the potential to cause facial or other impact injuries."
4. Fidget Spinners
There are no age recommendations on the spinners, but are branded as "novelty items" and not toys at all.
"Fidget Spinners, like these bright-colored versions, can be found in retail toy aisles," WATCH points out. "These spinners remain popular with children of all ages, and some present potential small parts hazards."
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