IT IS often said that today's children are more sophisticated than previous generations. After all, toy shops are now full of high tech hardware.

But children have not changed that much. This year's best-selling toys include the famous Furbys, the pretend pets which burp and break wind, and the Gus Gutz doll.

Children will take great delight from reaching down Gus's throat to pull out his spleen, heart and intestines - particularly as this will disgust the adults present.

This toy has some educational value. Youngsters that show an obsessive interest might go on to become doctors. But to be on the safe side, children who spend all Christmas Day Gutz-wrenching should be kept away from the family pet.

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