The American Academy of Pediatrics offers toy safety tips for parents to keep in mind during the holiday season. Consider the following advice:

• Make sure the toy selected is recommended for the age of the child — advanced toys may prove hazardous to young children.

• Toys that need to be plugged in should not be given to children younger than 10. This precaution can help prevent burns or electrical shocks.

• Be particularly careful about button batteries and magnets, which have proven to cause serious stomach and intestinal problems in children when swallowed. These items can be found in toys, musical greeting cards and remote controls, etc.

• Use caution around broken or deflated balloons, which can be a choking hazard for young kids.

• Toys with a string longer than 12 inches should be kept away from babies, as the string can be a strangulation hazard.