Children's Toys

Children’s toys are among of the products most carefully monitored and tested for harmful chemicals. Despite long-standing laws to protect children from exposure to these chemicals, many toys still contain detectable levels of lead and other noxious compounds in violation of Proposition 65, and other consumer safety regulations.

As a neurotoxin, lead is a highly toxic heavy metal that affects the nervous system. Children's brains are especially susceptible to the effects of lead.  Research has shown that repeated exposure to lead cumulatively affects the developing nervous system and, over time, can lead to attention deficit, learning disabilities, short-term memory loss, behavioral problems, and diminished intellectual ability. 

In both children and adults, lead exposure from consumer products begins with the handling of the product. Lead particles are then transferred from the hand to the eyes or mouth where the particles are then absorbed or ingested. Precautions must be taken with toddler and children’s products due to regular teething, mouthing, and other habits, during which lead particles can be directly ingested.

Toys can also contain phthalates, toxic chemicals known to cause reproductive harm. Research shows that phthalates harbor a stronger negative impact in male infants. Phthalates are "plasticizers," commonly added to plastic components in consumer products to increase their flexibility, transparency, durability, and longevity.

The Chanler Group's clients regularly investigate the presence of lead and phthalate chemicals such as di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate ("DEHP"),  butyl benzyl phthalate ("BBP"), and Di-n-butyl phthalate ("DBP"), which are often found in consumer products. 

Together, The Chanler Group and its clients have reached countless settlements with companies that manufacture children's toys, often securing a commitment from these companies to reformulate the product and to virtually eliminate the presence of phthalates and lead in their toy products. In addition to the reformulation commitment, these companies also comply with Proposition 65's health hazard warning requirements.  

We continue to monitor this industry closely in an effort to protect children from exposure to lead and phthalates and to improve the safety and well being of all children.

To review legal agreements which The Chanler Group's clients have reached with companies that sell children's toys, please see the cases below.