Young children are more likely to put non-food items in their mouth. Children’s behaviours, like mouthing and crawling, could expose them to a variety of harmful materials found in everyday items. This may increase their exposure to potential toxins. Be toy safe! Keep in mind the following:
- Throw out damaged or old toys from your child’s toy box. Items with peeling paint or that have plastic that is scratched or cloudy may release chemicals such as lead or phthalates.
- Discard metal toys, jewelry or key chains that are dull grey, heavy for their size and easily “draw” a grey line.
- Avoid plastics with a strong chemical smell.
- Buy wisely! Look for plastic toys that are phthalate, bisphenol A (BPA) and lead free.
- Do not let children chew on soft bath or inflatable toys, key chain pendants or jewelry.
- Choose unpainted wooden toys or machine-washable cloth toys.
- Use non-toxic arts and crafts products and follow label instructions.
- Health Canada regulates several chemicals found in children’s toys and jewelry.
Visit:
Health Canada’s Consumer Product Safety English / Francais
Environmental Health for Kids - Clean
Environmental Health for Kids - Simple
Environmental Health for Kids - Natural
To order a copy of this resource call Health Connection at 705-721-7520 or toll free 1-877-721-7520 Ext. 8323.
