Heath Tip: Give Age-Appropriate Toys

(HealthDay News) — Holiday toys should be age-appropriate and safe, to avoid injury.

The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these safety suggestions:

Select toys that match the age, abilities, skills and interests of the child.
For babies and toddlers, consider toys that build developmental skills.
If you are considering a tablet, smartphone or game system, establish rules for using the device before it is given as a gift.
Be careful if you give toys containing button batteries or magnets, which are choking hazards.
To prevent electric shock, do not give children under the age of 10 a toy that must be plugged in.
Do not give toys with small pieces to young children.
Children under age 8 can choke or suffocate on uninflated balloons.
Remove strangulation hazards such as tags, strings and ribbons from toys before giving them to young children.
Read the warning label and instructions on any gift to your child before use.