AVOID THESE TOYS TO KEEP YOUR CHILD’S EYES SAFE

December 16, 2013

As holiday shopping hits its peak, the American Academy of Ophthalmology urges consumers to exercise caution when considering the purchase of toys that commonly cause eye injuries, such as those that shoot projectiles, contain laser devices and include other sharp or protruding parts. (PRNewsFoto/American Academy of Ophthalmology)[/caption]

A new toy under the Christmas tree is exciting for both the child and the gifting parent, but pay close attention to the risk of eye injury any toy may pose.

Statistics from the US show that there are about 250,000 toy-related eye injuries annually.  Scaling down for our population in Canada, we can estimate about 25,000 visits to the emergency room for these types of injuries.  About one-third of these injuries are suffered by children under the age of five.

Here are four categories of toys to avoid this Christmas to reduce the chance of eye injury (especially for very young children)

 

1.     Toys that shoot things

Any type of projectile has the potential for causing injury to the eye.  This includes guns that shoot soft darts or suction cups.  Some of these can launch a dart over 75 feet.  At point-blank range this can result in serious damage to an eye

2.     Toys that involve long and pointy objects

Swords, fishing poles, light sabres and wands all fit into this category

3.     Aerosol string

“Silly string” type products can cause abrasions of the cornea as well as chemical burns to the eye’s sensitive structures

4.     Laser pointers

Toys that include laser pointers and bright LED flashlights should be avoided as gifts for children.  Even those that are considered “safe for kids” may increase the chances of an accident, due to the temporary blindness caused when they are shone into the eyes.

Check out http://www.allaboutvision.com/toys-to-avoid for a link to a list of “worst toys for 2013”. Specific toys to avoid are listed there for your reference.

Don’t always trust the labels on kid’s toys, or the fact that they are on sale, to make the determination that a toy is safe for your child.  Use common sense, and definitely consider the nature of the child you are buying for, as well as the age and maturity of the kids they will be playing with (they will likely be using the toy as well)!

-Dr. Tom Wilk

Source:   www.allaboutvision/toys-to-avoid/

A person is cleaning a pair of glasses with a cloth
By Rosendo C April 23, 2025
Learn simple, effective tips for cleaning, storing, and caring for your glasses. Discover how proper eyewear maintenance protects your vision and extends the life of your frames at Mountain View Optometry.
A woman wearing glasses is smiling in a black and white photo
By Rosendo C April 9, 2025
Tom Davies offers a distinguished eyewear experience through custom-made frames that combine artisanal design with a couture approach, setting new standards in premium eyewear since 2002.
The Pros and Cons of Cosmetic Eye Procedures
By Tom Wilk April 7, 2025
Cosmetic eye procedures can refresh your look and boost confidence, yet they come with risks. Explore the benefits and potential side effects to make an informed decision today.
A little girl wearing glasses and a blue dress.
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Discover Opal's playful and stylish children's eyewear, blending fashion and entertainment with popular licenses that kids love.
A woman wearing glasses and a red sweater is laughing.
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Celebrate ØRGREEN OPTICS’ legacy with the 1415 campaign, a tribute to Copenhagen’s oldest postal code. Discover how the city’s canals and creative energy inspire their unique designs.
A woman wearing glasses and a black pleated top
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Explore Etnia Barcelona’s new eyewear collection, where vibrant colors, bold contrasts, and premium acetates create striking designs. Celebrate individuality with frames that exude confidence and style.
A woman with glasses and a flower in her hair
By Rosendo C March 26, 2025
Dive into Etnia Barcelona's Underwater campaign, a surreal exploration of the ocean's depths. Discover a mystical AI-created world where vibrant flora, fauna, and mythical beings bring the beauty of the deep sea to life.
A man with a beard wearing maui jim sunglasses
By Rosendo C March 20, 2025
Discover Maui Jim sunglasses at Mountain View Optometry, featuring PolarizedPlus2® lens technology for superior glare protection, enhanced colors, and UV defense. Experience unmatched clarity and eye comfort with premium polarized lenses.
A man wearing sunglasses and a maui jim logo
By Rosendo C March 20, 2025
Maui Jim Sunglasses Spring-Summer 2025
A woman wearing glasses is standing in front of a colorful background.
By Rosendo C March 16, 2025
Thierry Lasry Eyewear Calgary - 2024 Campaign
Show More