Christmas can be a magical time for children. The excitement of Santa, the school break, advent chocolate, what’s not to love?
The excitement of getting new of toys is one of the better parts of Christmas for children, and for adults too, who can’t wait to see their kids faces when they unwrap the present they really wanted.
But it’s important ensure the toys you are getting children are safe, with many harbouring unknown hazards. So here’s a list of some of the most dangerous toys children can receive, so you’re prepped before the big day.
Water beads
These brightly coloured soft plastic beads seem harmless, but there is a hidden danger that comes with them.
Also known as jelly balls, sensory beads, or water crystals, they’re only a few millimetres in size, however they can expand several times their original size in about 36 hours when exposed to liquid. Meaning if a child swallows one, the beads can cause bowel obstruction and fatal consequences.
The beads are not visible on x-rays, and can also cause choking.
E-scooters and hoverboards
Whilst e-scooters and hoverboards may be popular and seen as fun methods of transport, they can pose a lot of risk, especially if you purchase them from non trusted brands.
The lithium-iron batteries that power such products can start explosive fires that are difficult to put out.
Products that feel like a bargain may in fact be too good to be true, with many cheap copies being recalled from sale due to dangers associated with the product.
Magnetic toys
Toys that contain magnets and are small enough to be swallowed can pose serious danger to children. High-strength magnets can rip through a child’s gut if they’re swallowed, potentially resulting in life-threatening injuries.
If you are purchasing toys with magnets, the Child Accident Prevention Trust recommends buying them from a reputable retailer or known brand name. Many toys from unknown sellers online can contain magnets that are far too strong, as well as not coming with safety warnings.
Slime
Slime products are continuously growing in popularity amongst children. But be warned, many slime products can contain a high dose of harmful chemicals.
Some slimes have been recalled due to containing excess amounts of boron. Exposure can cause irritation, diarrhoea, vomiting, and cramps.
Button and coin cell batteries
Toys and gadgets are increasingly containing button and coin cell batteries, which can get lodged in the food pipe of young children, resulting in serious harm and in worse cases, death, due to a chemical reaction which erodes tissue.
Children under five are at highest risk of injury as a result of these batteries, s so its best to teach your children about the dangers of putting things in their mouths, something which they have a habit of doing.
Safety checks
If you’re still unsure about the safety of a product, here are some checks you can do:
- Check battery compartments for accessible button batteries or spares in the box
- Look at age restrictions and safety warnings on the product
- Check gov.uk to see a list of recalled products
- Give parts of the toy a quick tug and check for small parts that come off