MANILA, Philippines—Shopping for toys this Christmas? Make sure they are age-appropriate, especially for babies and toddlers.
The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday gave tips on the best toy picks even as it warned the public against hazardous toys.
DOH spokesperson Dr. Lyndon Lee Suy on Friday said toys that are considered safe for young children should be not be a choking hazard and should not have sharp points and edges.
A safe toy should be one that is suitable for the child’s physical capabilities and mental and social development, appealing and interesting, well-constructed, durable and safe for the child’s age, said Lee Suy.
Rattles and large brightly colored balls, washable stuffed dolls and animals with big and clearly defined faces are appropriate toy gifts for newborns and babies below 1 year old, he said.
For children aged 2 to 3 years old, the recommended toys include wooden animals, dolls and sturdy kiddie cars, modeling clay and rocking horses while for those aged 4 to 5, puppets, push toys, building blocks, balls and kites are more suitable, he said.
“Always check the labels on the packaging of toys and follow the instructions or precautions in the labels,” said Lee Suy. “Dispose of plastic packaging accordingly [and] keep them out of reach of children.”
Choking hazards like balls with a diameter of 1.75 inches or less are not suitable for children under three years. Toys that contain or break easily into small parts, toys with sharp points or edges, or parts that could pinch or trap fingers, toes or hair should also not be given to little children, said Lee Suy.
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