Babies, Parenting, Child Health, Infant Nutrition

Early Child Development - The Aftermath of Toy Recalls

10.24.2007 | 8:10:56 pm | Posted by mummums

Colleen Hurley, RD, Certified Kid’s Nutrition Specialist

The wake of the recent toy recalls has left many parents wondering what changes will occur in toy manufacturing. Furthermore, how could we as a nation allow this to happen? And how will we know what we buy in the future is safe?

With so many toys made in China, why isn’t the US more strict on their import and export standards? As Buy Direct USA points out, companies often put price before quality. The craze for fad toys sends toy makers scrambling overseas for cheap labor and mass production. Saving a dollar is putting our most sensitive population, children, at risk.

Turning the Tide
US lawmakers are currently in negotiations with Chinese officials to require US inspections of plants manufacturing goods for export to the US.
Chinese officials say this law would ultimately hurt the brand-holder, the importer, and exporter. Yet currently, it is our children who are getting hurt. Instead, Chinese officials countered it would be best to leave inspections as a commercial agreement between importer and exporter. China has also promised to revise its own manufacturing procedures; yet states America should share the responsibility. This may not be enough for many parents, as 80% of children’s toys are made in China. One law China has enacted as of August 31, 2007 is to force companies who have been found to make defective food or goods cease production immediately until the problem is cleared up. These companies must also notify consumers and issue refunds. The new law is to be enforced by the Chinese Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection, and Quarantine.

Cleaning Up Their Act
Mattel, the company responsible for the recent recall of children and infant toys, has declared it will make some changes in procedure. Prior to the recall, toys were only randomly tested. Mattel has now promised to check every batch of toys made and “step up” safety checks with suppliers before the toys are finished production.

Looking To The Future
What exactly the future holds for toy makers is yet to be seen. It is apparent that saving money in production certainly does not save money in the long run. Toys can play and integral role in early child development. It is vitally important, however, to make sure these toys are made safe. One proactive step you as a parent can take is to buy toys made in the US. This will ensure the manufacturer has complied with current regulations and standards. Organic baby products and naturally made toys are another way to ensure you are getting products that have been made under stringent guidelines in both production procedures and environment impact. See our post Organic Baby Products for tips on shopping for safe, quality toys for your kids.

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