What chemicals and additives are found in dangerous toys?

The most problematic toxins in toys and child-care products are compounds that are added to plastics to make them more pliable. While this allows manufacturers great creativity in shaping toys, some additives are toxic. Lead, phthalates and Bisphenol A are all used to create types of plastic or to act on plastic as a softener. All are known to cause health disorders in certain concentrations, with serious consequences for the development of children who ingest or absorb them. While the federal government is planning to instigate a ban over the next few years, some defective toys with high amounts of phthalates or lead may still linger on the shelves. Get toy recall resources from the American Academy of Pediatrics.  more