
Avoid the Most Dangerous Toys This Christmas
Christmas is around the corner, and if you have small children, they've probably started to put together a list of the toys they want most. The last thing you want to do, though, is buy them something that a health or safety risk. But how can you know what to avoid? Fortunately, W.A.T.C.H (World Against Toys Causing Harm), a nonprofit organization, puts out an annual list of the ones most likely to cause injury to children. Here are some of the most dangerous toys that have been on their list for the last year.- Peppa Pig's Muddy Puddles Family—This set of four pig figures has many small parts that constitute a choking hazard. The product packaging is inconsistent—some packages recommend it for children as young as 2, but other packages contain warnings that the toy is "not for children under 3 years." It's available at Target and Amazon.
- Peppy Pup—Available at Toys R Us, this pull toy has a cord more than 30 inches long, in violation of industry standards that limit such strings to 12 inches.
- Slimeball—This slimeball "gun," which functions like a slingshot, is geared toward older children—the package says recommends age 6 or older. However, the device has significant force and has already caused a number of serious eye injuries.
- Baby Magic doll—Watch out for the "interactive" spoon that comes with this doll. It's less than three inches long and poses a serious choking hazard for a small child.
- The Superman "Grip It or Rip It!" launcher—Recommended for children as young as four, this toy allows you to send Clark Kent flying through the air with significant force. The package warns "Never aim at eyes or face," something your average four-year-old likely won't read (if they can read).
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