And don't spend the holidays in the emergency room. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 17 kids under age 15 died last year in toy-related accidents. The agency says the deaths weren't the result of obviously dangerous toys -- rocket launchers or trampolines -- but, rather, were caused by choking and drowning. Charleston families can find safer ways to make their holidays merry.

Child development experts agree that the most important thing to keep in mind is how the child will interact with the toy. Simpler is better, especially for very young children, because simple toys encourage kids to think on their own, to make up stories or to try different configurations.

With that in mind, safety advocates provide a few guidelines:

  1. Pay attention to the age ranges on toys -- again, especially when it comes to very young children. If a toy is not recommended for children under 3, don't buy it for a 2-year-old.
  2. Read warning labels carefully. It's all too easy to skip over warnings, but they are there for a reason. Chances are they include information that isn't obvious -- about small parts that are choking hazards, for example.
  3. Look for well-made toys and prepare to pay for quality. A quick internet search will give you consumer ratings and safety assessments of popular toys and different types of toys. If the store brand is cheaper, but the well-known brand has earned the praise of families, kids and consumer safety advocates, go for the brand.
  4. Buy helmets and protective gear to go with any riding toy -- bikes, skateboards and the like. Don't put it off until after the holidays, because that child is going to want to play with that gift right away.
  5. Supervise children closely when they play with new toys, to make sure they understand how something works and to make sure the toy is as safe as you want it to be. Better yet, join in the play!

Remember, too, to supervise your kids when they open their gifts. Boxes may have sharp staples in them; the edges of plastic packaging can be pretty sharp. And, of course, small items and pieces are choking hazards.

Family, fun and safety are what the holidays are all about.

Source: USA Today, "Choose toys wisely for safe holiday play," Darla Carter, Dec. 2, 2011