Thanks for your replies. I'm glad that you all think it's ok. My daughter loves them and it's about the only thing that will keep her occupied while I cook..... she would even ignore the TV!!!!! I guess mother-in-laws have all sorts of weird beliefs .... esp so if she's chinese! Not being racist here ... am chinese myself but don't follow all the old traditions .... the hot and cold theory or the 30 day confinement after baby! Anyway, gone off track a bit here .... Karen