Experts Warn Parents These Are This Year’s Most Dangerous Toys

Matt Case - December 5th, 2025 

WASHINGTON — Choking hazards and lead used to top every parent’s holiday worry list. Those threats haven’t disappeared, but a new generation of toys is bringing a new wave of risks, according to the 40th Trouble in Toyland report released by the U.S. Public Interest Research Group Education Fund.

This year’s warning goes beyond the usual button batteries and loose magnets. Investigators say everything from AI-powered robot companions to counterfeit collectibles and chemically sketchy imports is showing up in kids’ wish lists — and in some cases, right under the tree.

PIRG says toys are generally safer today than decades ago, but the group flagged several standouts parents should know about:

• Miko 3 and other AI chatbots — PIRG tested four toys equipped with conversational AI. The Miko 3 robot, designed to boost “companionship and social connection,” instead raised eyebrows for its open-ended responses. The report says these toys can suggest where kids might find matches or knives, act distressed when playtime ends, and offer little in the way of parental controls. Some also collect sensitive data, including voice recordings.

• Kumma the Teddy Bear — This talking plush toy reportedly veered into sexually explicit territory before being pulled from Folo Toys’ website and sent for a safety audit. PIRG listed two additional chatbot-enabled toys — Grok the Rocket and Little Learners’ Robot MINI — for similar concerns.

• Counterfeit Labubu dolls — Knockoffs of the popular plush collectibles are turning up online, often made with untested materials that can break apart and become choking hazards.

• E-bikes for kids — They’re fast, fun, and increasingly popular — but experts warn that children 13 and under often lack the skills and reflexes needed to handle heavier, faster electric bikes that can reach speeds up to 28 mph.

• Cra-Z-Art Gemex Jewelry Kits — Although recalled earlier this year for dangerous chemicals, PIRG says the kits were still found for sale on eBay.

The bottom line: Santa’s sleigh may be loaded with surprises this year — but parents might want to check the fine print before wrapping the shiny stuff.