There is growing evidence that all artificial fields and playgrounds are made with materials that can be dangerous for children and adults. Our Center has testified before the Washington, D.C. City Council, and we are working with parents across the country who seek our help in convincing their communities to choose grass and avoid artificial turf whenever possible.
Read More »Toys & Other Children’s Products
Children and Athletes at Play on Toxic Turf and Playgrounds
Is your child playing on rubber instead of grass at the playground? The use of human-made surfaces on playgrounds has increased dramatically over the years. Developed during the 1960s primarily for athletic fields, these artificial surfaces were also part of a strategy to provide children with more opportunities for outdoor physical activity, particularly in the inner city where outdoor playgrounds were scarce.The first artificial turf (marketed as “Chemgrass”) was made of plastic, yet looked a lot like natural grass.
Read More »Toys-R-Dangerous? What You Need to Know about Children’s Products and Recalls
In recent years, an increasing number of toys and products have been pulled off the shelves because they were found to be harmful to children. According to Consumers Union, toy recall levels reached a record high in 2007, with over 20 million toys recalled for having lead or other hazards. In fact, 2007 was often referred to as “the year of the recall.”
Read More »Are Bisphenol A (BPA) Plastic Products Safe for Infants and Children?
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical used to make plastics, and is frequently used in baby bottles, sports equipment, water bottles, medical devices, and as a coating in food and beverage cans.
Read More »Rock-a-bye Baby, Chemicals and All: the Health Risks Posed by Crib Mattresses
In recent years, the safety regulations for cribs have increased yet little attention has been given to the safety of crib mattresses. A 2011 study finds that an alarming number of mattresses contain chemicals that may pose serious health risks for infants.
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