It is almost September, which means summer is coming to an end and children will soon be heading back to school. But what harmful chemicals could be lurking on the school playground, and how can you avoid them?

Social media trends

Whether it’s Pokémon cards, football stickers, or fidget toys, every generation has seen its playground craze. While previous trends may have mainly posed a risk to parents’ wallets, some current trends, such as squishy toys and skincare products, could be exposing children to harmful chemicals.

Squishy toys

As squishy toys have increased in popularity, so too have the number of fake versions that haven’t passed health and safety regulations. A number of warnings have been issued over fake squishy toys in recent months, including a recent recall issued by the UK Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS) for fake squishy dumpling toys that contain illegal levels of a known carcinogen.

To avoid purchasing counterfeit toys, we recommend shopping from reputable sites and shops, and only choosing products with the UKCA/CE marking. We recommend avoiding soft plastic toys, as these can contain harmful chemicals like phthalates – read more on this page. UK shoppers can check for product recalls on the OPSS website or read this article for further advice.

Skincare and cosmetics

With a rise in lifestyle and beauty content on social media, many children are becoming more interested in skincare and cosmetics. However, these products can contain a cocktail of harmful chemicals, including endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs), which disrupt the normal functioning of hormones. Children are particularly vulnerable to EDCs as they are still developing.

Many skincare and cosmetic products are unnecessary or not designed for children and their more sensitive skin, so we recommend avoiding them whenever possible. When you do need to buy toiletries for children, such as shampoos and shower gel, opt for products specifically designed for children and fragrance-free products. Additionally, look for products with an EU Ecolabel, as these cannot contain certain harmful chemicals. You can learn more about how to reduce your risk of exposure to harmful chemicals in cosmetics here.

Food and drink containers

When packing your child’s lunch, consider avoiding plastic water bottles, food containers and packaging. These items can contain harmful chemicals such as bisphenols and phthalates. Studies have shown these chemicals can migrate from packaging into food and drink, potentially exposing your child to them. Exposure to some bisphenols and phthalates has been linked to health impacts, including impaired brain development and behavioural issues in children. Instead, opt for stainless steel lunchboxes and water bottles.

Waterproof coats

With cooler, wetter weather approaching, a reliable raincoat is an important point on the back-to-school checklist. However, some raincoats are treated with PFAS (forever chemicals) due to their ability to repel water.

Exposure to some PFAS has been linked with adverse health impacts, including certain cancers, reduced fertility, and the disruption of the immune system.

So, when buying your child a raincoat, check the label and opt for those labelled PFAS-free or PFC-free. Ask the manufacturer if you’re unsure.

We need stronger regulations

Back-to-school is a busy and often stressful time for many. Parents and caregivers shouldn’t have to add “avoid harmful chemicals” to their to-do list, instead, stronger regulations should be in place to protect us. CHEM Trust is calling for better chemical regulations and is working with other UK and EU NGOs to ensure the most harmful chemicals are replaced with safer alternatives.

Read more news.