Money Matters by Evelyn D. DeLoatch, CFCS Family and Consumer Agent

Gift Tips for the Holidays

The choice of toys and gift ideas seems to be limitless and your children may have a list that also seems limitless. But not all items on your child's list are necessarily the ones they need. So begin your purchases with the following tips in mind.

• Make sure that the toy is age appropriate. That means that the toy should not be too simple or advanced for a child. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations if you are in doubt.

• Toys should be sturdy with few breakable parts or sharp edges.

• When purchasing for younger children, make sure the toy is too large to fit in the mouth, and does not have small parts that break away. (Small parts are a choking hazard.)

• Preview any CD's and videos on your child's list for content.

• When purchasing scooters, bikes, skateboards, make sure wheels are sturdy, brakes are easy to manipulate and he height of the bike is appropriate for your child.

• If you are giving a pet, such as a dog for a gift, make sure the child is responsible enough to care for the pet.

• Buy batteries, if needed, at the time of the purchase.

• Identify gifts purchased with a name or code after wrapping. Many gifts have been given to the wrong person because there was no label.

• Make a list. This will keep you from leaving anyone out as well as possibly overspending.

A little forethought can help make your gift giving a wonderful experience. So take time out and consider all of the many selections and make your choice and age appropriate one based on the child's age plus abilities.