With all the lead and date rape drugs and recalls in toys we’ve just decided to give up on toys all together. There is something to be said about a good ‘ole household item as a toy. In fact for Boggie’s first Christmas and birthday this year my plan is to buy myself something and give him the box. What’s the worst that could happen? a paper cut? at least he won’t die from that.

In all seriousness, Boog still does have toys made in China. I have been watching the recalls diligently and we have had a few toys that were recalled. Unfortunately I am one of those people who cuts the tags off of everything so I’m really not sure in some of them fall into the recall or not. I’ve thrown those toys away because I’m not willing to take that chance.

There are only a few toys that we have that are painted so I’ve tried to weed those out as well. We don’t really need any additional toys because really, how many toys does one 10 month old need. I have purchased him a super cool wooden helicopter toy from The Silly Wagon but I’m still waiting on it. I would like to get some wooden blocks so maybe that is what he’ll get for Christmas.

As you are making your holiday shopping decisions check out the Consumer Union Safe Shopper program. Join their 12 days of Safe Shopping campaign and get some good coupons to help with your holiday shopping.

What are you doing to protect your kids from all these harmful toys? Visit the Parent Bloggers Network to find out what others are doing.