With barely 100 days before Christmas, the Department of
Health (DOH) yesterday advised parents and godparents planning to give toys to
kids to first ensure the safety of the gifts.
According to an advisory posted on its website (www.doh.gov.ph),
aside from ample adult supervision, it is important that the toys that will be
given to children, especially those aged three and below, are safe.
"Check labels on the packaging and observe precautions
appearing in the labels to ensure the safety of the child from the toy," the DOH
advisory said.
It added that the toy that would be given to the child should
be suited for the recipients’ age so as to avoid unnecessary dangers.
The DOH also advised those who will give gifts to kids three
years old and below to avoid giving toy presents that easily breaks into small
parts or those containing small detachable parts as it could be lodged in the
throat of the child if swallowed.
It also called on the adults to avoid those toys that have
sharp points and edges, containing electrical parts or parts that could pinch or
entrap fingers, toes or hair.
On the other hand, the health department also advised parents
to give presents that would be able to enhance the physical and mental
development of the children.
The DOH said it would also be better if the toys that would be given are well
constructed and durable enough for the children to play with.
