subject: Why Toy With Safety? [print this page] We hear a lot about lead poisoning in the media.When we bought our first home, we had to make sure that there was no lead-based paint on the walls for fear that it would flake off and our children might eat it.Lately, several toys have been recalled by their manufactures due to excessive levels of lead in their paint.
I know some people have wondered what the big deal is, especially since this type of paint has probably been on toys for years.It reminds me of the people who complain about seatbelt laws; they didn't wear them when they were kids, and they ended up okay.Well, I know some law enforcement officers who have attended at car accidents involving children, and seeing the pain and distress on their faces as they recount what they have seen is enough for me.
Yes, maybe I survived not always being buckled in, but I would rather not find out how horrible it can be with the lives of my own children.The same is true of lead poisoning, and the need for lead free toys.
I decided to do a little research into lead poisoning.My mother once told me that she thought the lead pipes in ancient Rome caused madness and lead to the downfall of the Roman Empire.If that's the case, why would I want to undermine my own civilization, especially the lives of my children, by exposing them to something potentially hazardous.Lead is toxic to many of the body's organs and processes.It harms the heart, bones, digestive system, and can affect the nervous and reproductive systems.
It is particularly harmful to children as it can interfere with the development of the nervous system, causing potentially permanent learning and behavioral disorders.It can even lead to seizures, coma, and death, which is not something I want for my children.
So for my family and children, it's lead free paint and lead free toys.There is no good reason to settle for anything less, especially with so many better options so readily available.Not only that, but it's also a good idea to sort through the toys you already have and safely dispose of any of those that are old or have been listed on recall lists.Don't pass them on to thrift stores.After all, you wouldn't want someone to do that to your children.
