As you gear up for the mad rush to find the latest and greatest toys for your child, make sure you first consult the resources listed below for ideas and to make sure the toys you buy aren’t hazardous for children.

Before you start shopping, make sure you educate yourself first about what not to buy.  Each year, the U.S. Education PIRG puts out its “Trouble in Toyland” report.  The annual report provides safety guidelines for parents when toy shopping.  The report’s key findings found that lead and phthalates continue to be of concern in certain toy products.  Additionally, the report focused on choking hazards found on toys and on high noise toys that can lead to hearing loss in young children.  The attachment to the report starting at page 21 lists examples of potentially dangerous toys and children’s products.

Trouble in Toyland 2011 Report - USPIRG

If you purchase a toy that contains saftey hazards, make sure you report your findings to the CPSC at www.cpsc.gov and to www.saferproducts. gov.

Teachers Resisting Unhealthy Children’s Entertainment (TRUCE) has great guides on age appropriate play and toys for children.  Each guide explains the types of developmental benefits to look for in toys, action ideas for playing with children, and media guides.

Want to know the worst of the worst toys?  The Campaign for Commercial Free Childhoods has posted its nominess for its annual TOADY (Toys Oppressive And Destructive to Young Children) Awards.  Voting is open until November 28th.