The world as we know it is really messed up. Mattel and Fisher Price, the very people who brought us Tickle-Me-Elmo as the toy of the season last Christmas, have allowed some of America’s babies to play with and put in their little mouths, toys painted with lead paint. I do accept the explanation that their executives set guidelines for the factory owners in China. Part of the directive was don’t use lead paint, however someone should have followed up on that. This is not a case of putting the wrong labels on clothing and not having it fit the American baby. This is an extreme danger to the little toddlers. How ironic that parents are buying educational toys – that may cause brain damage if – change that to when – they put them in their mouths. It will be some time before the company regains the trust of the American public.
On the positive side, Fisher Price/Mattel has brought us that amazing Tickle-Me-Elmo. He can laugh, kick his feet in the air after falling on his back. He can then roll over and stand up all by himself. He even does a somersault. All this with one arm attached to his body. Did I mention that he can talk. I cannot praise...