Newspapers, the TV station, the Internet, the parent forum, and office hallway conversations are all about Mattel’s recent toy recall. As the mom of my 5-year-old angel, I am very concerned about this message. My mother told me this news in the first memory about 2 weeks ago. I dismissed it thinking this only happened in China. But in the back of my mind, my mind is racing and pulling out my collections of the newest toys that my husband, my colleagues in China bought for my daughter. Yes, there are Barbie toys, lots of them.
Just yesterday, the news of Mattel Toy’s recall was featured prominently in Singapore’s leading newspaper and TV channel. Quickly, I did a metal check and realized that 30% of my daughter’s toys (gifts from family, friends, my parents) are from Mattel. From Barbie, Polly Pockets, Dora and some other Disney characters. My heart is beating fast, I’m getting seriously worried.
Turning on my internet, I began browsing Mattel’s website for more information on the recall. The link pointing to the Singapore withdrawal was active, but was listed as under construction (Yuks, this is not good!). I check with the Mattel Care hotline (available only during business hours). The phone has been busy all day.
I’m frustrated. I am extremely concerned as the news of Dora’s toy recall was mentioned in our newspaper, but not on Mattel’s website. this is conflicting
As I subscribed to the Fisher Price (Mattel subsidiary brand) newsletter to receive toys and updates, I was surprised that Mattel CEO Bob Eckert sent emails to his Fisher Price member mailing list informing about their withdrawal. .
Regardless, I’m prepared to return these toys to Mattel. However, how am I going to tell my “princess” that she won’t have her toys to play with? 30% of her toy (2 full boxes) and 1 big Dora house! My nurturing instinct tells me to calmly tell her and get her emotionally prepared to willingly part with her toys from her.
So I pulled her aside, showed her the newspaper (which luckily has pictures of Barbie and other toys). I told him that some “bad” people use bad paint and bad magnets in these toys. The bad things in these toys will hurt her and make her sick. So mom is worried about her health. Specifically I use these words “Mom loves you and she doesn’t want to see you sick. If these paints on the toys make you sick, I’ll take them off.” She began to understand what she meant. She said, “Yeah, I don’t want to be sick. I can’t go to Sunday school and skate when I’m sick.” So I said, “So no Barbie dolls and Dora toys, since Mommy wants to put them away.” She replied and nodded “Yes”.
So it was good for me. My “princess” was very understanding and has taken it very well.
As for me, nothing is more important than my daughter’s health. I’m sure other parents share this too.
However share some tips with parents when choosing toys.
1. Choose brands that are well established.
Most of these companies are more responsible and will take action if something happens or tighten their quality control process.
2. Choose toys that are relevant to the age of the children.
3. Check the ingredients used to make the toys and the countries where it was made.
Yes, almost 80% of toys are made in China.
Example: wooden brick toys. The ones made with non-toxic paint from Israel can cost S$80 per bucket compared to S$8 from a store in Singapore (made in China) or RMB 8 in China. only 36 months.
4. For special occasions such as birthdays, Christmas or Children’s Day, you can provide a list of toys or gifts that you want to buy for your children. This can prevent duplication of the same toys or too much of one type of toy versus another.
5. Identify if the toy can help the child in
– Pure creative play (Example: finger puppets)
– Innovation (Example: beach or garden tool kit for exploration)
– Problem solving (Puzzle; start with 2,3,4,6 pieces and go to 12-24-64 pieces as they grow)
– Role play (doll house, dress up)
Act out different characters (Daddy or Mommy, Rabbit, Kitten or Tiger, etc.)
Whatever it is, a toy given to a child should not be seen as just a pacifier or a convenience tool for busy parents. Every item given to a child, especially when they are infants or toddlers, should be selected with care and consideration. Toys are a very important part of children’s activities, especially when they are young. So choose with consideration and lots of thought.