Group rates top 10 worst toys for child safety

If you have kids or grandkids you’ll likely spend a lot of money on toys this holiday season.

The annual Worst Toy List put out by an organization called World Against Toys Causing Harm Inc. or W.A.T.C.H. has been released.

Which toys made the list? A black panther claw; plastic power rangers sword; and even a xylophone for babies. See all toys that are on the list HERE.

The Massachusetts-based non-profit says most of the toys on the list represent choking, eye and other safety hazards.

What do toymakers say about this list? Nothing nice.

LINK: Toy-related deaths and injuries in 2017

In fact, they use words like ‘biased’ and ‘inaccurate’. Vice President of The Toy Association Jennifer Gibbons says, “Each and every year, W.A.T.CH. puts out a list like this and each and every year it’s full of misinformation and inaccurate information. W.A.T.CH. is not testing any of the toys that they’ve included on this list for their safety, and toy manufacturers go to great lengths to ensure that toys are safe and compliant, and they have a lot of testing that they do in order to ensure that.”

So who are parents to believe?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission actually works with retailers, toymakers and non-profits to keep toys safe, and they’ve put together a checklist for parents buying toys this holiday:

• Check the label: Follow age guidance and other safety information on packaging (age grading is based on safety concerns and on the developmental appropriateness for children).
• Avoid toys with small parts, as well as marbles and small balls, for children under age three.
• Ensure that stuffed toys have age-appropriate features such as embroidered or secured eyes and noses for younger children and seams that are reinforced to withstand an older child’s play.
• Be careful with magnets: High-powered magnet sets are a safety risk to children – toddler through teen.  Children have swallowed loose magnets, causing serious intestinal injuries.
• Choose toys that match your child’s interests and abilities as well as your family’s play environment.
• Get safety gear. With scooters and other riding toys, be sure to include helmets. Helmets should be worn properly at all times, and they should be sized to fit.
• Know your seller. Purchase toys from retailers you know and trust.