This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Grades 2-3

China's Broken Toys

The Grinch can take a break this holiday season. Millions of toys are already being taken away from kids, but for a very good reason. On August 14, Mattel, the world's largest toy company, recalled nearly 19*million toys. The company says the recalled toys may be unsafe. When something is recalled, it is no longer sold. Stores remove recalled items from their shelves. Customers can get their money back or get a new item.

Chinese factories make four out of every five toys in the world. In August, 436,000 "Sarge" cars were removed from stores. They were covered with lead paint. Lead is a metal that can harm humans, especially young children. Mattel also recalled about 18*million more toys. Some Barbie, Polly Pocket and Batman play sets were found to be unsafe. Kids could swallow small magnets on the toys.

A Need for Change

There have been problems with many goods made in China this year. Dangerous ingredients were found in pet food and toothpaste. Shoppers around the world are asking if it is safe to buy Chinese goods. Many people worry that the country does not have a strong system to keep products safe.

Government leaders in the United States want tougher rules for goods made in China. Some will meet with Chinese officials in September to talk about new rules. China is taking steps to improve its safety record too. Some factories have been closed. Keeping everything safe is a good goal for all companies.

Next: Heavy Rains Pound Several States