Category: Parenting

As 2025 progresses, a growing concern among parents, caregivers, and safety advocates is the rising number of toy recalls. In recent years, we have seen an increase in the number of dangerous toys entering the market, leading to more recalls, injuries, and, in some tragic cases, fatalities.

For parents, it’s critical to be aware of these risks to ensure their children’s safety. Understanding why toy recalls are on the rise, how to prevent dangerous toy injuries, and what parents can do in the event of a product liability claim for defective toys is vital.

The Surge in Toy Recalls

In the past few years, toy manufacturers have faced increasing scrutiny regarding product safety, and the number of toy recalls has steadily risen. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), toy recalls have grown by 20% from the previous year, and 2025 shows no signs of slowing down. This is largely due to improvements in safety detection, more stringent regulations, and heightened public awareness of product safety issues.

The recalls often stem from design flaws, manufacturing defects, and the failure to meet safety standards, putting children at risk for injuries. Whether it’s choking hazards from small parts, lead contamination, or faulty electrical components, defective toys pose significant dangers that require urgent attention.

The Impact of Dangerous Toys on Children

Toys are meant to be fun, educational, and safe for children. However, when safety protocols are ignored or compromised, toys can lead to a variety of injuries. The most common injuries associated with dangerous toys include choking, burns, cuts, and fractures.

Toys that contain small, detachable parts present a serious choking risk for younger children. Small magnetic pieces, for example, can be swallowed, and when ingested in large quantities, they can cause severe internal injuries. In some cases, hazardous chemicals such as lead or phthalates in toys can cause long-term developmental issues or poisoning if children come into contact with or ingest them.

In addition to physical harm, defective toys can also cause emotional trauma, especially if a child suffers a serious injury that requires medical intervention. As a result, parents must be vigilant in identifying potential safety hazards and stay informed about the latest toy recalls.

Understanding the Causes of Toy Recalls

The reasons behind toy recalls can vary, but the most common causes are related to defects in materials, design, or manufacturing. Some of the most concerning issues leading to toy recalls include:

1. Choking Hazards: Small parts, like buttons, beads, and magnets, are often a source of danger for young children who are prone to putting toys in their mouths. Many recalls have occurred due to small components coming loose, posing significant choking risks.

2. Toxic Chemicals: Some toys, particularly imported ones, contain hazardous chemicals such as lead or phthalates. These toxic substances can be ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, causing a variety of health problems, including developmental delays and neurological issues.

3. Sharp Edges and Points: Toys that feature sharp points, edges, or other dangerous design elements can cause cuts, scratches, or puncture wounds, leading to painful and, in some cases, serious injuries.

4. Electrical and Fire Hazards: Battery-operated toys and electronic devices, including those with malfunctioning wiring, can lead to burns or electrocution. In rare cases, they can even spark fires, endangering both children and households.

5. Faulty Construction: Toys that break apart too easily or have defective assembly may lead to a sudden malfunction that can injure the child. Whether it’s a doll with a loose head or a toy car that breaks apart when driven, these construction flaws can lead to immediate and severe harm.

How Parents Can Prevent Dangerous Toy Injuries

While toy recalls are important, preventing dangerous toy injuries in the first place is crucial. Parents can employ these strategies to protect their children from unsafe toys.

1. Stay Informed About Recalls

One of the most effective ways to keep your child safe is to stay up to date with the latest toy recalls. Organizations like the CPSC and Safe Kids Worldwide regularly release updates about recalled toys, providing detailed information about the product, the hazard it poses, and what parents should do if they own one of the affected items.

Parents should regularly check the CPSC website and sign up for email notifications about recalls. Additionally, many retailers also issue their own recall notices, so it’s important to monitor those as well.

2. Examine Toys for Safety Features

Before purchasing toys, parents should always examine them for safety features. Make sure that toys are age-appropriate and don’t contain small parts that could be choking hazards for young children. Look for labels and certifications indicating that the product meets safety standards, such as the ASTM F963 standard, which is the American standard for toy safety.

When buying second-hand toys or receiving them as gifts, be especially cautious. These toys may no longer meet current safety standards or could have been previously recalled without your knowledge. Inspect second-hand toys thoroughly and check for any signs of wear or damage that could pose a risk.

3. Use Toys Under Supervision

It’s important to supervise children while they play with toys, especially those that may pose a risk if misused. Some toys are perfectly safe when used as intended, but if children use them inappropriately, the risk of injury increases. For example, toys with small removable parts should only be used under supervision to prevent choking.

4. Keep Toys Clean and Well-Maintained

Wear and tear can cause toys to become defective, so it’s essential to keep them clean and in good condition. Check toys regularly for broken pieces, loose parts, or worn-out materials. If a toy starts to break down or show signs of malfunctioning, dispose of it immediately.

What to Do in the Event of a Defective Toy Injury

If your child is injured by a defective toy, it’s important to take immediate action. The first step is to seek medical attention if needed. For minor injuries, it may be sufficient to treat them at home, but in the case of serious injuries like choking or burns, you should go to the emergency room right away.

After ensuring your child’s safety, consider pursuing a product liability claim if the injury was caused by a manufacturing or design defect. Product liability claims for defective toys can help cover medical bills, pain and suffering, and other costs associated with the injury. A qualified attorney experienced in product liability claims can assist you in navigating the legal process and help hold the responsible manufacturer or retailer accountable for their negligence.

The rise in toy recalls in 2025 is a concerning trend that every parent should take seriously. Preventing dangerous toy injuries requires awareness, diligence, and action. By staying informed about the latest recalls, checking toys for safety features, and using them responsibly, parents can significantly reduce the risk of harm to their children.

Baseball season is an exciting time for young athletes and their families. Cheering from the stands, celebrating key plays, and watching your child grow on and off the field will create lasting memories. However, being a good baseball parent goes beyond showing up at games. You want to be a role model for your child.

Following proper etiquette can create a positive environment for your child and the entire team. Below, you’ll learn the essential dos and don’ts of baseball parent etiquette to help you contribute to a respectful baseball community.

Do Encourage and Support All Players Equally 

Every young player on the team is there to learn and grow. Cheer for your child and all players, regardless of their skill level or performance. Compliment the effort and teamwork you see rather than focusing only on achievements like home runs or strikeouts. A positive attitude in the stands sets the tone and lets all the kids feel valued, fostering a team-first mindset.

Don’t Yell at the Coaches or Umpires 

Part of being a great baseball parent means respecting the authority of the coaches and umpires. Avoid shouting instructions to your child from the sidelines, disrupting the game, and undermining the coach’s instructions. Similarly, resist the urge to argue with the umpire even if a call doesn’t go your way. These individuals dedicate their time and effort to support the game, and setting an example of respect demonstrates good sportsmanship for your child.

Do Teach Your Child Good Sportsmanship 

Sportsmanship is one of the most important lessons children can learn through baseball. Talk to your child about staying respectful, whether they are winning or losing. Encourage them to shake hands with their teammates and opponents after the game. Remind them to thank their coaches for their time and guidance. When parents model sportsmanship, kids are more likely to emulate that behavior on and off the field.

Don’t Overstep During Your Child’s Practice or Games 

While wanting to help your child succeed is natural, stepping onto the field or coaching from the sidelines can hinder their growth. Allow coaches to do their job and create a clear boundary between being a supportive parent and interfering with team operations. Giving your child space during practices and games allows them to develop independence and respond to instruction from their coach without distraction.

Do Bring Snacks and Refreshments for the Team

Being a thoughtful part of the baseball community can go a long way. When it’s your turn to provide snacks, contribute something simple and nutritious that energizes the kids. While homemade brownies might sound nice, options like fruit cups, granola bars, or bottled water will keep their focus sharp and ready for the game. Helping replenish the team’s energy makes you an appreciated part of game day.

Do Get Your Child the Correct Equipment 

The right gear is essential for your child to play effectively and stay safe on the field. Start by picking out the right bat that suits their size and skill level. Also, equip them with essentials like a well-fitted helmet to enhance your little leaguer’s safety during practice and games. Proper equipment supports their performance and instills confidence as they compete throughout the season.

Other Baseball Equipment

Other equipment your child will need includes:

• Cleats
• Baseball glove
• Batting gloves
• Extra baseballs

Take these baseball parent dos and don’ts to heart this season and watch your child thrive in an environment full of respect, encouragement, and positivity. Make every game count—for the team, your child, and yourself.

Spending intentional quality time with your little girl will strengthen your bond and create memories you’ll both cherish throughout the years. If you’re looking for cute mommy-daughter date night ideas to try, look no further. From heading to the movies to shopping for new outfits, these ideas are perfect for bonding.Mommy-Daughter Date

Going to the Movies

Few things are as timeless and enjoyable as a night at the movies. Pick a family-friendly film you’d both enjoy, grab some popcorn, and settle in for a fun evening. To make the night even more special, dress up a little, as if you’re planning a glamorous evening out.

Budget-Friendly Alternative

The movies aren’t cheap. If heading to the theater isn’t an option for your budget, don’t worry! Instead, consider setting up a movie night at home. Just lay out soft blankets, prepare your favorite candies, and project the film onto a wall. If you need film ideas, consider some family-friendly movies kids love. It’s as simple as that!

Planning an At-Home Spa Night

An at-home spa night is the perfect way to relax and bond at the same time. Light some scented candles, play soft music, and create a peaceful atmosphere where you can pamper each other.

Then the fun begins! You can attempt easy nail art designs on each other or just sit back and relax with hydrating face masks. Elevate the experience even more by soaking your feet in a warm bath with essential oils. You can even pull out fluffy robes and slippers to make the night feel extra luxurious.

Spend the evening chatting about your week or telling stories while unwinding together. This is one of those mommy-daughter date nights that feels indulgent but is easy to pull off without leaving the house.

Baking Something Sweet

Few things foster connection like spending time in the kitchen together. Choose a recipe for your daughter’s favorite sweet treat, and work as a team from start to finish. When it comes time to decorate, follow her lead and let her grade your work—it’s sure to inspire some giggles.

Baking is a fun way to teach your daughter practical skills while indulging in something yummy at the end. Plus, the delicious smell that fills your home only adds to the magic.

Making a Fort

Rediscover your inner child by creating a blanket fort together in the living room. Use blankets, sheets, pillows, and chairs to construct the coziest hideaway. Bring in fairy lights, stuffed animals, and all the snacks you can carry.

Once inside, fill your fort time with fun activities like sharing stories, playing games, or reading your daughter’s favorite book aloud. This idea is cheap, creative, and bound to make her smile.

Shopping for a New Outfit

Treat your daughter to a fun night out and new clothes just because. Take her to her favorite store and let her pick out a cute new outfit. Make it even more exciting by letting her choose accessories like a bracelet, hairband, or shoes to complete the look.

Since most parents buy clothing for their kids only when they’ve outgrown it, this is a special idea that your little girl will cherish. Plus, you’ll be empowering her creativity and style by letting her pick her fit!

Try these cute mommy-daughter date night ideas if you want to laugh, learn more about each other, and create precious memories. Whether you paint each other’s nails at home or whip up a multitiered cake to enjoy, these activities won’t disappoint.

If you remember doing chores as a child, you likely recall arguing with your parents about getting them done. Cleaning your room and doing laundry are not fun for most kids, but they are important ways to teach them responsibility. As a busy parent, having your kids do chores can also be a weight off your shoulders.

How do you get your kids to do chores when they’d rather play? These tips can make it simpler. They build chores into a child’s routine, making them a habit, meaning you’ll encounter less fuss when asking your kid to do something.

Start Early

Younger children are on a quest for knowledge and haven’t formulated decisions on what is pleasant or unpleasant in life. At three years old, your kid will likely be willing and ready to help with anything you ask them to do, especially if you take the time to show them how. Take advantage of this time to instill responsibility and independence into their routines.

Start out with easy tasks that your toddler can handle. For example, they can put placemats on the dining room table or pick up their toys in the living room.

With a few gentle reminders about their obligations initially, your children will soon start building these small responsibilities into their daily routines. When they do unprompted chores, your positive recognition of their actions will encourage them further.

Don’t initially overload your young kid with responsibility. Introduce them to new chores as they master their current ones and grow into helping.

Try Behavior Charts

Visual congratulations like behavior charts further encourage chore completion as your kid ages. Even as a parent, receiving a complimentary post on a business bulletin board or an email of recognition from a manager motivates you and provides a sense of accomplishment — a chore chart acknowledging your child’s efforts has the same effect.

Say your child has three daily chores during the week. They could end the cycle with 15 gold stars on the chart if they complete them all perfectly. You could allocate “star content” rewards after every weekly cycle. Fifteen stars might earn your kid their toy choice up to a particular value, while 14 stars could mean their choice of a favorite cereal.

You can also make a monthly chore schedule to account for bigger tasks. On a daily basis, tasks may look like making the bed, putting toys away and loading the dishwasher. Things like changing their bedsheets or vacuuming their room can be done once a week, while helping to clean the bathroom may be once a month.

Always Reward Appropriately

Suppose you only start assigning chores when your child is older. At school-going ages, your kid already has built their daily routine and has less time to do what they enjoy when they get home. With homework and bath times factoring into their afternoons and early evenings, you may encounter more resistance to assigning them chores.

Offering small rewards, like replacing the Friday chores with a playdate or additional screen time, goes a long way to keeping the peace and satisfying your kid. Otherwise, introducing a fun activity on certain weekends may encourage unhindered chore completion among older children during the week.

As your child reaches teenage status, finances become essential in maintaining their fledgling social lives. If your teenager already does chores, replace their physical or time-based rewards with an allowance to likely find favor with your youth. If you only introduce chores very late, the same financial incentive will motivate your offspring to work with you.

If your kids do tasks for their allowance, they’ll value the money they get more than if you dish it out to them for nothing. Chore completion for remuneration provides an essential life lesson to a teenager — in time, they’ll move from home and have to earn to survive and thrive. Emphasize this point when explaining the importance of “working” for their allowance.

Dealing With Incompleted or Ignored Chores

The unfavorable side of allocating chores is when they are incomplete or left entirely undone. How should you deal with these?

With young kids, failing to reach a chore target on their star chart means no reward at the end of a cycle. You might feel guilty when this happens but remember that your parental responsibility lies in teaching your kid there’s a consequence to their actions.

For your adolescent, their allowance is a vital part of their growth. Perhaps, instead of removing a portion of the allowance — which might foster resentment — consider taking away or reducing privileges like screen time or enforcing an earlier bedtime.

Chores Benefit Your Child

Assign chores to your child. This proactive habit will teach them valuable life lessons and prepare them for adulthood when working for something results in greater rewards.

Author bio:  Cora Gold is the Editor-in-Chief of women’s lifestyle magazine, Revivalist. She strives to live a happy and healthy life with her family by her side.
Follow Cora on Facebook and LinkedIn.