Does Your Kid Love Magnetic Toys? They Could Harm Their Insides

By Lucia Paula , Parent Herald Oct 05, 12:50 pm

Photo: (Photo : zengxiao lin on Unsplash)

Magnetic toys, with their captivating pull and novel design, have swiftly become a favorite among children. However, while they might seem harmless and entertaining, a looming danger hides within, especially when these tiny magnets are ingested by unsuspecting kids.

Raising Awareness on Use of Magnetic Toys

Recently, a vital warning has been sounded by the child safety organization, @tinyheartseducation. Spearheaded by former paramedic Nikki Jurcutz and her sister Rach Waia, this organization took to the digital platform to raise awareness about the latent dangers of magnetic toys.
Through a video demonstration, the duo shed light on a seemingly innocuous magnetic, reusable water balloon. Upon closer inspection, this toy revealed tiny yet potent silver magnets binding its structure. The ease with which these magnets could be detached becomes a potential hazard, as the chances of a curious child swallowing them rise significantly.

To drive home the severity of the issue, the video used a simple yet effective demonstration. Inserting one of these magnets into a slice of deli meat and then bringing another magnet close to the meat illustrated the magnetic attraction. The implication? If swallowed, these magnets can attract each other within a child's intestines, potentially causing grievous injuries.
Such internal attractions can lead to the tearing of the intestinal walls, blockages, or even more severe complications, all of which may require urgent medical attention and surgical intervention.

@tinyheartseducation The hidden danger of magnetic toys These powerful magnets can attract each other within the body, causing damage to the intestinal walls and leading to emergency surgeries. #reusablewaterballoons #magnetictoys #toysafety ♬ original sound - carl_edit - ᴍ ɪ ᴋ ᴇ

The video understandably struck a chord with many parents, leading to a flurry of comments and interactions. A significant number of viewers confessed that they were previously unaware of the hazards associated with magnetic toys. Comments varied from simple acknowledgments, with one viewer stating, "I didn't know this! Thank you for sharing!" to proactive parents who, after watching the video, decided to rid their homes of such toys for the safety of their children.

Some insightful comments also pointed towards safer alternatives. Several parents highlighted that non-magnetic versions of popular toys, such as reusable water balloons made of silicone, were readily available on the market. These alternatives offer the same play value minus the inherent risks associated with magnetic toys.

A Real-Life Ordeal: Meliyah-Jayd's Distressing Experience

However, despite these warnings, some families have unfortunately already faced the repercussions of these hazardous toys.
A particularly distressing incident that transpired last month involved a 2-year-old named Meliyah Jayd. She had to be rushed into emergency surgery after swallowing six magnetic "fidget" balls.

The resulting internal damage was severe, with the magnets burning multiple holes in her small bowels. The aftermath of this ordeal left little Meliyah-Jayd with a significant portion of her bowel removed and a lifelong scar as a testament to the traumatic event.

Recounting the ordeal, her distressed mother, Jade Berriman, highlighted the severity of the symptoms her daughter displayed post-ingestion. She described how her once vibrant child became so debilitated that she couldn't even hold herself up and faced life-threatening situations like choking on her own vomit.

The eye-opening video by @tinyheartseducation, coupled with real-life incidents like Meliyah-Jayd's, serves as potent reminders for parents worldwide. They emphasize the importance of being aware, informed, and cautious when choosing toys for their children. While magnetic toys may offer momentary entertainment, the potential long-term risks associated with them are undeniable. Parents must remain vigilant and prioritize the safety of their children above all else.