"Concept Classification Activity Kits" and "Opposites Take-Home Pack" educational games
CPSC Recall #01-096b — February 28, 2001
Recall Summary
| Recall Number | 01-096b |
| Recall Date | February 28, 2001 |
| Remedy Type | Replace |
| Units Affected | 13,000 |
Where It Was Sold
| The Concept Classification Activity Kits were sold to teachers and schools nationwide between January 1992 and January 2001 for $50. The Opposites Take-Home Pack |
| a transparent backpack with blue trimming |
| was sold to teachers and schools nationwide between January 1999 and January 2001 for $10. |
Product
"Concept Classification Activity Kits" and "Opposites Take-Home Pack" educational games
Description
PRODUCT: Educational Games - Lakeshore Learning Materials, of Carson, Calif., is recalling 13,000 children's educational games. The Concept Classification Activity Kits were sold to teachers and schools nationwide between January 1992 and January 2001 for $50. Each game has various disks that say, "Hot," "Cold," "Light," "Heavy," etc. Children then match the appropriate game piece to the disk that best describes the characteristics of the object. One of the objects is a silver-covered metal weight, shaped like a disc measuring about 1-1/4 inches in diameter with a small loop at the top. Imprinted on one side of the disc is the partial face of a bird and the number "4"; and on the other side, it states, "4 Woody Gardena."The Opposites Take-Home Pack, a transparent backpack with blue trimming, was sold to teachers and schools nationwide between January 1999 and January 2001 for $10. Games inside the pack include opposite picture cards, crayons, paperback book, and various objects. One of the objects is a silver-covered metal weight, shaped like a disc measuring about 1-1/4 inches in diameter with a small loop at the top. Imprinted on one side of the disc is the partial face of a bird and the number "4"; and on the other side, it states, "4 Woody Gardena."PROBLEM: Metal weights found in the games contain lead, which presents a lead poisoning hazard to children. Lead poisoning in children is associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation.INCIDENTS/INJURIES: None reported.WHAT TO DO: Consumers should immediately remove and discard the metal discs. To receive a lead-free replacement piece, call Lakeshore Learning Materials toll-free at (800) 421-5354 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.
Hazard
Metal weights found in the games contain lead, which presents a lead poisoning hazard to children. Lead poisoning in children is associated with behavioral problems, learning disabilities, hearing problems and growth retardation.
Incidents & Injuries
None reported.
Remedy Instructions
Consumers should immediately remove and discard the metal discs. To receive a lead-free replacement piece, call Lakeshore Learning Materials toll-free at (800) 421-5354 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. PT Monday through Friday.
What Should You Do?
Stop using this product immediately. Contact the manufacturer for a Replace at no charge. If you experienced an injury, report it at SaferProducts.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
Follow the consumer action instructions in the recall notice above. Most recalls require you to stop using the product and contact the manufacturer directly — either by calling the toll-free number listed in the official CPSC notice or by visiting the manufacturer's website. You generally do not need a receipt or original packaging to claim a remedy. The manufacturer is legally required to provide the remedy (Replace) at no cost to you.
Yes. If you were injured by a defective consumer product — whether recalled or not — you may have grounds for a product liability claim against the manufacturer and potentially the retailer. A recall notice can serve as evidence that the manufacturer was aware of the defect. Injuries that may support a claim include burns, lacerations, fractures, electric shock, choking incidents, and chemical exposure. Most product liability attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless you win. Consult an attorney promptly, as statutes of limitation vary by state.
In most cases, no. CPSC-coordinated recall remedies are designed to be accessible without proof of purchase. Manufacturers typically ask consumers to self-certify ownership and may ask for photos of the product or its serial number. Some manufacturers request that you mail in a portion of the product (such as a cut cord or removed component) as proof of disposal. Check the specific remedy instructions for this recall for exact requirements. If you registered your product at the time of purchase, the process is usually even simpler.
If the original manufacturer has gone out of business, the recall remedy may no longer be available through them. In this case, contact CPSC directly at 1-800-638-2772 or cpsc.gov for guidance. If the brand was acquired by another company, the acquiring company may have assumed recall obligations. In some cases where a remedy is unavailable, CPSC advises consumers to safely dispose of the product. If you were injured by the product of a defunct company, consult a product liability attorney — parent companies, distributors, and retailers may still bear liability in some circumstances.