I admit it, readers, this sort of freaks me out.

Look, I’ve got nothing against nations like China or India or Malaysia or even Mexico. Nor do I have a problem with spending less on toys because they’re made elsewhere (which undoubtedly is the case). But do we (or American toy companies) really know what people in foreign nations are putting in the toys we give our kids? Is there even a way for us regular folks to find out?

Considering the frequency with which toys are recalled these days, I’m guessing the answer in both cases is a resounding “no.”

A cursory Web search led me to a number of sites (like this one, for instance) designed to document which, if any, toys are made here in the U.S.A. Even then, none of these sites looks particularly reputable, which begs the question: Where can I learn more?

And, of course, the follow-up: To what extent is there actually more available to learn?

If any of you has advice on these matters, please speak up. I’m actually thinking the subject might make for an interesting magazine article at some point. This is a great place to start.