Toys are meant to bring joy, spark creativity, and give your child hours of safe playtime. But when a toy turns dangerous, it can be a parent’s worst nightmare.
You do everything you can to protect your child, from reading labels to choosing trusted brands. So when something still goes wrong, it’s natural to feel shocked, confused and even angry.
Start with safety and documentation
If your child is injured, the first priority is always medical attention. Even minor-looking injuries can become more serious over time, so it’s wise to have a doctor examine them right away. Once they’re safe and treated, try to preserve the toy exactly as it was at the time of the incident, don’t throw it away or fix it. Take photos of the toy, the injury and where it happened. These details can help piece together exactly what went wrong.
It’s also worth checking for recalls. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) lists recalled toys and children’s products, often due to hidden dangers like choking hazards, toxic materials or malfunctioning parts. If the toy that caused the injury has already been recalled, that information can be important both for peace of mind and any next steps you may consider.
When a toy harms a child, it’s not just upsetting, it may also be illegal. Toy manufacturers have a legal responsibility to ensure their products are safe for children. Whether the danger came from poor design, faulty manufacturing or a lack of safety warnings, families may be eligible for compensation related to medical expenses, emotional distress or time off work. You don’t need to navigate that process alone.
If your loved one has been hurt by a defective toy, and you’re unsure what to do next, talking to a legal professional who understands how these cases work can help you figure out the right path forward.