Safe Summer Play: How to Prevent Toy-Related Eye Injuries

Excitement and Risks of New Toys

Children love playing with toys during holidays, and receiving new toys as gifts makes them feel very excited. However, it is very important to play safely, as one in ten eye injuries in children happens because of toys.

Some toys known to cause harm include BB guns, airsoft guns, Nerf guns, darts, crossbows, and slingshots. In addition, toys such as Paw Patrol figures and Legos can also cause injury. It is the duty of parents to explain how to play safely with different toys and to discuss the risks associated with them.

If a child cannot understand these safety instructions, it means they are not mature enough to play with that particular toy.

Important Safety Guidelines

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), children under six years of age should not use toys or gadgets that emit lasers or highly concentrated light. These can cause serious vision problems if pointed toward the eyes.

Plastic toys that break easily and form sharp edges should also be avoided. Instead, choose well-built toys with rounded edges, which are much safer.

Finally, it is important to follow the age recommendations on toy packaging. Using toys appropriate for a child's age group can help ensure their safety to a great extent.