Toy Association Talks Toy Safety with Pediatric Medical Community

March 22, 2019 | The Toy Association continued its partnership with the pediatric medical community and spread the word about safe play at the annual Advanced Pediatric Emergency Medicine (PEM) Assembly, held March 19 to 21 in Anaheim, CA.

Hosted by the American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), the annual PEM Assembly provides those caring for emergency department pediatric patients with updates on the latest and most innovative developments in pediatric emergency medicine, as well as opportunities to network with others who are committed to the health and safety of children.  Attendees at this year’s conference included physicians, nurses, and child life specialists. 

The PEM Assembly was attended by The Toy Association’s Joan Lawrence, senior vice president of standards and regulatory affairs, and Alan Kaufman, senior vice president of technical affairs. Kaufman addressed the group in a presentation titled, “The Toy Association and the Medical Community – Partners in Child Safety.” He spoke of the Association’s history and record of safety work, including public education efforts through PlaySafe.org and other channels, and enlisted the PEM group’s assistance in disseminating toy and play safety information to patients and caregivers.

“As Assembly sponsors for the fourth consecutive year, we were able to further the conversation about the importance of fun and safe play with those on the front lines of treating childhood injuries,” said Lawrence. “We called upon them for help in identifying emergent hazard patterns and encouraged their participation in the toy safety standards development process. It was a great success and allowed us to expand our network of partners who can help impact safety.”

The Association’s website, PlaySafe.org, continues to be a trusted resource for parents and caregivers who want accurate, helpful information about safe play.