According to the DOH advisory, a good toy should be suitable to the child’s physical capabilities and mental and social development.

Toys should also be well-constructed, durable and safe for the child’s age, the DOH said.

The toy should also be appealing and interesting to the child, the DOH added.

DOH also reminds the public to check the labels on the toy’s packaging, making sure to follow the safety precautions listed on the label.

When children are playing, adults should always be present to supervise them, the DOH advised.

Adults should also dispose of plastic packaging, which can cause suffocation.

The advisory also lists down the following specifications that may make toys unsuitable for children under the age of three:

balls with a diameter of 1.75 inches or less that could cause choking

toys made of glass or brittle plastics that easily break into small parts of pieces

toys that contain small detachable parts or pieces which could become lodged in the throat

toys that have sharp points and edges

toys that have electrical parts

toys that could pinch or entrap fingers, toes or hair

toys that have parts put together by straight pins, sharp wires or nails that are exposed and easily detached

In an interview with Unang Balita, DOH’s Dr. Eric Tayag also reminded the public to keep in mind the acronym SAFER TOYS:

S – Seek warning labels (Buy toys made of non-toxic material) A – Age really matters (Give age-appropriate toys) F – Follow instructions E – Expect accidents (Make sure adult supervision is present at all times) R – Remove tiny parts that can cause choking T – Throw away parts that can cause lacerations or injuries O – Out with loud toys that can damage the ears Y – Yes to educational toys S – Share the fun!

-VVP, GMANews.TV