ASK THE PEDIATRICIAN: Why doesn’t CPCMG have toys and books in their office reception areas?

For decades, pediatric office waiting rooms were filled with the comforting clatter of building blocks, the whirl of bead mazes, and the pages of books flipping under little fingers. It may be disappointing to arrive at your CPCMG office to find the reception area free of toys and books and you may wonder, why?

The answer lies in a combination of health, safety, and operational concerns:

1. Infection Control
The most important reason CPCMG does not have toys and books in the reception area is to reduce the risk of spreading illness. Our patients often arrive with contagious conditions like colds, flu, RSV, and other viral infections. Shared toys can harbor germs and facilitate transmission from one child to another.

2. Safety and Liability
Toys can pose physical safety risks. Small or broken parts may become choking hazards. Rough play can lead to accidents. In a setting where children of various ages and developmental stages are present, it’s difficult to ensure that every toy is age-appropriate and used safely.

3. Allergy and Sensitivity Considerations
Some children have allergies or sensitivities to common materials found in toys including latex, certain plastics, or even residues from cleaning products. By removing toys, the risk of an allergic reaction is reduced.

What you can do:
• Bring a favorite toy or book from home
• Pack digital entertainment (with headphones)
• Engage your child with simple games like “I Spy” or storytelling

CPCMG is responsible for providing a safe environment for every family that comes to us for care. Removing toys and books from our reception areas is a thoughtful, proactive measure to support your family’s health and safety.