CUTE KIDS CONTEST
To enter the January Cute Kids Contest e-mail a photo to chattamoms@timesfreepress.com. Submissions will be accepted through Jan. 10. Online voting for the monthly winner will be Jan. 11-27. The winning family will receive a one-year membership to the Tennessee Aquarium or the Creative Discovery Museum.
According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there were an estimated 235,300 toy-related injuries treated in emergency rooms in 2008. Here are some useful toy safety tips to avoid the ER this holiday season:
1. The most important aspect of buying gifts for children for the holidays is to make sure the toy or game is age-appropriate for the child. The guidelines were developed by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission and Toy Industry Association, and take into account the typical ability of children to handle certain toys.
2. Children are naturally excited to play with new toys at holiday times, often in a robust and possibly in an overly enthusiastic manner. It is important that parents periodically check their children’s toys for any damage or breakage, which could create sharp edges or a choking hazard. If a toy looks damaged, take it away.
3. While toy shopping during the holidays, check recall notices at the toy or department store to verify none of child’s existing toys have been recalled and are still in your child’s room or toy box.
— St. Louis Post-Dispatch