The Toy Association Provides Tips for Safe Seasonal Shopping

‘Tis the season of safety. November marks the start of Toy Safety Awareness Month, so The Toy Association is sharing its top tips and tricks to help families play it safe this holiday season. 

“The holidays are all about building core childhood memories, having fun as a family, and the excitement of new toys,” said Joan Lawrence, The Toy Association’s ‘Toy Safety Mom’ and Senior Vice President of Standards and Regulatory Affairs. “But before checking off holiday shopping lists, gift-givers should know that it’s crucial to be able to spot counterfeit toys lurking online… Informing families about how to spot counterfeit toys — and other important play safety tips — is a top priority for The Toy Association and our members during the holiday season and all year long.”

Counterfeit toys are a rising concern among families, with 80% of U.S. parents finding it increasingly difficult to spot knockoffs, according to a new survey from The Toy Association. While genuine toys must comply with rigorous federal standards, most counterfeit ones do not meet the same requirements and may pose a risk to children’s safety. To ensure they’re shopping responsibly, consumers should avoid unknown sites and only buy from brands and retailers they know and trust.  

Similarly, gift-givers should stick to purchasing toys intended for kids rather than non-toy products, such as desk accessories, balloons, watches, and remote controls. These items don’t adhere to the same safety guidelines and may contain small pieces that little ones could swallow. Shoppers should also pay attention to age recommendations, as these ratings are in place to help prevent injuries while providing kids with a fun play experience that matches their current development. 

With the rise of technology and internet-connected products, it’s essential for families to have conversations with their kids about safe online practices. The Toy Association encourages parents to familiarize themselves with each smart toy’s privacy policy, parental controls, and camera and chat functionalities to safeguard children as they explore digital spaces. 

Consumers can visit playsafe.org for more information, infographics, and other helpful resources to play responsibly as Toy Safety Awareness Month continues.