Children’s eyes are especially vulnerable to injury, and even seemingly harmless toys can pose serious risks. Reported injuries range from corneal abrasions and ocular hyphema to more severe trauma such as retinal detachment, ruptured globes, and even permanent vision loss.
The good news: most toy-related eye injuries are preventable. A few simple precautions can make all the difference.
How to Keep Kids Safe
- Avoid toys with sharp, protruding, or projectile parts. These are among the most common causes of eye injuries.
- Supervise children when they are playing with toys or games that could pose a risk.
- Check laser product labels to confirm compliance with key federal safety standards.
- Pair sports gifts with proper protective eyewear. Choose impact-resistant polycarbonate lenses for maximum safety.
- Follow age recommendations and choose toys that match the child’s age and developmental level.
- Keep older children’s toys out of reach of younger children to prevent accidental misuse.
And, of course, keep your own eyes safe when celebrating.
