Toys have changed over the years and the assortment can be astounding, particularly to those who haven't toy-shopped in awhile. Child safety, however, never goes out of style. It is something grandparents and other family members should keep in mind when selecting gifts for youngsters.

The Better Business Bureau and the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission to offer these tips to help keep kids happy and safe this holiday season:

ï Select toys that fit the child's age, interests and skill level.

ï Read and follow the age recommendation listed on the package or toy. If it is not recommended for children under three, do not purchase it for a toddler or an infant.

ï Look for safety labels. If you are purchasing a fabric product, look for a "flame retardant/flame resistant" label. If it is a stuffed toy or doll, look for a label that states it is made of "washable/hygienic materials."

ï For children under age three, avoid toys with small parts, which can cause choking, the number one cause of accidental death in children.

ï Toys with cords or strings may also be dangerous for infants and very young children, as they pose a strangling hazard.

ï Rattles, squeeze toys and the like should be large enough they cannot be swallowed and become lodged in an infant's throat.

ï If you give a child a skateboard, rollerblades, bicycle, or scooter, include a helmet and knee, elbow, and wrist protectors.

ï For children under age eight, avoid toys with sharp edges and electric toys with parts that "heat up."

ï Toys that produce loud noises can damage hearing.

ï Remember, siblings share toys. If you buy the six-year-old a toy with small parts and he has a three-year-old sibling, it could pose a safety hazard for the younger child.

ï Look for quality design and good construction. Toys that break easily can mean trouble as sharp edges, dangerous prongs or exposed electrical wires.

ï Make sure all directions or instructions are easy to understand, for both parent and child.

ï If the toy requires batteries, provide them with the gift. That will make the parent's job easier.

ï Ask about the retailer's return policy and request a gift receipt. This will assist parents if they have to return the toy.