During a recent democratic debate on NPR, presidential candidate John Edwards was asked, in light of recent toy recalls, if his children (ages 9 and 7) would be receiving toys made in China for Christmas. He responded that, in fact, he would not be purchasing Chinese-made toys for his kids.

To which I have to say… good luck with that Mr. Edwards.

Any parent who has bought toys for kids knows that most toys, at least most toys that my kids want, are made in China. And, as much as I try to convince them otherwise, my son is not going to be interested in giving up a new fleet of Matchbox cars for a box of Bicycle Playing Cards, and my daughter is not going to understand when she receives a box of American-made Legos instead of the doll furniture she requested.

Can't you see it? "It's ok honey, we'll use these blocks to build your baby a high-chair!"

That’s not to say there are not several really great American-made toy options available (I found a couple of links – here and here). But the fact is, they are becoming harder and harder to find, and in many cases require that I order online or through the mail. Not great options for the last-minute mommy.

Which is what made Mr. Edwards’ comment seem so… out-of-touch. Does he know if the toys his children are getting are all US made (because, let’s face it, my husband doesn’t even know WHAT my kids are getting for Christmas, never mind where it was made)? And if so, do his kids know it? Because if they don’t, I suspect someone is going to be really pissed at Santa Claus this year.

It is a sad state of affairs, and as we head into the 2008 presidential elections, I hope that the presidential candidates add product safety to their list of priorities. In the meantime, I’m going to shop for my kids and keep my fingers crossed that what I buy is safe and lead free.

Why do I suddenly feel like I'm about to play Russian roulette?