As the holiday shopping season commences, experts from Yale New Haven Health and the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection are cautioning parents about the risks associated with hazardous toys. 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.” He emphasized the importance of parents carefully evaluating their purchases, particularly in light of the increasing presence of counterfeit toys online and a surge in seasonal product offerings.
The rise of counterfeit toys presents a significant concern for families. Dr. Dodington noted that these items often lack essential safety testing, proper labeling, and quality materials. Dr. Lawrence Siew, medical director of the Emergency Department at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital, added that legitimate toys will always display age recommendations, warnings, and clear instructions. “If you don’t see these details or if the packaging looks inconsistent or poorly printed, treat it as a red flag,” he advised. Counterfeit toys frequently lack crucial safety features that protect children from harm.
In addition to ensuring toys meet safety standards, clinicians stress the importance of matching toys to a child’s developmental readiness rather than just their chronological age. Dr. Magna Dias, chair of pediatrics at Bridgeport Hospital, highlighted 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 explained. Choosing age-appropriate toys supports both safety and healthy development.
According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s most recent report on toy-related incidents, there were 10 deaths and approximately 154,700 emergency department-treated injuries in 2023 involving toys for children aged 12 years and younger. The data underscores the urgency of the current warnings.
Experts also urge parents to be aware of potential hazards related to sound levels in electronic toys. Pediatric specialists caution that certain toys can emit sounds at volumes that may damage a child’s hearing over time. Sam Schild, a pediatric otolaryngologist at Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital, noted, “A surprising number of musical or electronic toys can exceed safe decibel limits, especially when held close to a child’s ear.” He recommends testing toys in-store whenever possible and cautions that if a toy seems excessively loud to an adult, it is likely too loud for a young child.
Parents should also ensure that toys have secure, screw-closed battery compartments and keep loose batteries out of children’s reach. Immediate medical attention is critical if a battery is swallowed. Pediatric specialists are available at Yale New Haven Hospital and affiliated locations in Bridgeport and Greenwich for any health concerns.
When considering gifts such as scooters, skateboards, or bicycles, experts recommend including a properly fitted helmet. Parents should inspect toys for sharp edges, seams, or moving parts that could pose cut or pinch hazards. Toys with long cords or straps that could lead to strangulation should be avoided, especially for young children. Additionally, small or detachable pieces present a significant choking hazard, particularly for children under three years of age.
Data from the Consumer Product Safety Commission indicates that non-motorized scooters accounted for one in every five toy-related injuries among children younger than 15. Bryan T. Cafferelli, Commissioner of the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, emphasized the importance of ensuring that holiday gifts are safe. “Taking the time to make sure your gifts for kids are safe will ensure a happy holiday season,” he stated. He cautioned that lesser-known or off-brand toys sold through small or online retailers are more likely to be mislabeled.
To check for choking hazards, Cafferelli recommends a quick test using the cardboard tube from a roll of toilet paper. If a toy or its parts can fit inside that tube, it poses a risk for small children who tend to put objects in their mouths.
To enhance safety during this festive season, families are encouraged to follow these guidelines:
– Choose toys that are age-appropriate by checking label recommendations and understanding the child’s needs.
– Ensure fabrics are labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant.
– Verify that painted toys use lead-free paint.
– Watch for 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, which can cause life-threatening injuries if swallowed.
– Test electronic toys for safe sound levels and avoid items that seem excessively loud.
– Match toys to a child’s developmental stage and abilities, not just their age.
If consumers encounter unsafe toys, they can file a complaint by visiting ct.gov/DCP and following the instructions for “File a Complaint.” Complaints can also be submitted to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Federal Trade Commission. By taking these precautions, parents can help ensure a safer holiday shopping experience for their families.
