During the holiday season it is difficult to make sense of the millions of toys out there. Which ones are best for your child? Toys are supposed to be fun and are an important part of any child’s development. But each year, scores of kids are treated in hospital emergency departments for toy-related injuries. Choking is a particular risk for kids ages 3 or younger, because they tend to put objects in their mouths.

As you are shopping for holiday gifts for your children, Dr. Tony Woodward, chief of emergency medicine at Seattle Children’s Hospital, would like to remind you of these 10 important tips on choosing safe and appropriate toys:

1. Check the labels to make sure the toy is age-appropriate and matches your child’s skill level.
2. Avoid toys with small pieces for children under age 3 – these can become choking hazards. A good rule of thumb: if it can fit in a toilet paper role, it is too small.
3. For toddlers and babies, avoid toys with metal parts, cords or strings.
4. Avoid letting young children play with toys that have magnets. Warn older children to never put magnets in their mouth.
5. For electric toys, only choose ones that say “UL Approved” – this means they have passed certain safety standards.
6. Dispose of plastic wrapping and other packaging right away.
7. Help your child understand the instructions.
8. Check toys often for damage – if a toy cannot be fixed, throw it away.
9. If you have older children, remember to keep their toys out of reach of your toddler or infant.
10. Sign up to receive recall notices on child products, including toys, from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission at www.cpsc.gov.