Newspapers, TV station, Internet, parent forum, and office hallway conversations all talk 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 at 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 latest toys my husband, my colleagues in China bought for my daughter. Yes, there are Barbie toys, lots of them.
Just yesterday, in Singapore’s leading newspaper and TV channel, the news of Mattel Toy’s withdrawal was featured prominently. Quickly, I did a metal check and realized that 30% of my daughter’s toys (gifted by family, friends, my parents) are from Mattel. From Barbie, Polly Pockets, Dora and some other Disney characters. My heart is beating fast, I’m seriously worrying.
Turning on my internet, I began browsing the Mattel website for more information about the recall. The link pointing to the Singapore withdrawal was active, but it was listed as under construction (Yuks, this is not good!). I check on 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 the Dora toy recall was mentioned in our newspaper, but not on the Mattel website. this is conflicting
As I subscribed to the Fisher Price (subsidiary brand of Mattel) newsletter for toys and updates, I was surprised when Mattel CEO Bob Eckert sent emails to his Fisher Price member mailing list informing them of their recall. .
Regardless, I am 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 house for Dora! My parenting instinct tells me to tell her calmly and emotionally prepare her to part with her toys willingly.
So I took 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 magnets on these toys. Bad things in these toys will hurt her and make her sick. So mom is worried about her health. I specifically 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 away.” She began to understand what she meant. She said, “Yes, 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 keep them.” She answered 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 the rest of the 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 up their quality control process.
2. Choose toys that are relevant to the age of the children.
3. Check the ingredients used to make the toy 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 shop 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 (Puzzles; starts with 2,3,4,6 pieces and goes to 12-24-64 pieces as they grow)
– Role play (dollhouse, dress up)
Act different characters (dad or mom, rabbit, kitten or tiger, etc.)
Whatever it is, a toy given to a child shouldn’t just be seen as a pacifier or convenience tool for busy parents. Every item given to a child, especially when they are babies or toddlers, must 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 a lot of thought.