Posted by: Ann M. Hickson, O.D. in Pediatric
Each year, thousands of children are treated in emergency rooms for toy-related injuries, with eye injuries being among the most serious. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), an estimated 240,000 toy-related injuries occur in the U.S. annually, and a significant portion of those involve the eyes. While toys are essential for play and development, they can pose risks when not chosen carefully or used improperly. As we head into the holiday season and birthdays roll around, it’s crucial for parents and caregivers to understand how to keep playtime safe — especially when it comes to protecting young eyes.
Types of Eye Injuries
The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports that toy-related eye injuries can range from mild irritations to severe trauma, including corneal abrasions, retinal detachment, and even permanent vision loss. Injuries are often caused by toys that shoot projectiles, such as toy guns, foam dart blasters, or slingshots. For example, foam dart blasters, a popular category of toys, are responsible for thousands of injuries each year, many involving the eyes. Even seemingly harmless items like laser pointers can cause serious damage to the retina if pointed directly into the eye, potentially leading to long-term vision problems.
In fact, a study published in Pediatrics found that eye injuries from toy-related accidents have increased by nearly 10% in the last five years. This highlights the growing need for vigilance when it comes to selecting and supervising toys that children play with.
Key Recommendations for Parents
To minimize the risk of eye injuries, experts recommend following a few simple guidelines:
- Age-Appropriate Toys: Always check the age recommendations on toy packaging and ensure the toy is suitable for the child’s age and developmental stage. Toys intended for older children may not be safe for younger ones and can increase the risk of injury.
- Avoid Sharp Objects: Steer clear of toys with sharp edges, small parts that could break off, or objects that could cause blunt force trauma. Pay attention to toys that have small projectiles or loose parts that can become hazardous.
- Supervision is Key: Supervise play when using toys that involve projectiles or moving parts. It’s especially important to keep an eye on children using toys like foam dart blasters, toy crossbows, or slingshots, as these can easily lead to accidental eye injuries if not used carefully.
- Protective Eyewear: For certain activities, such as sports or when children are using toys with a potential for projectiles (e.g., Nerf blasters), it’s a good idea to encourage or provide protective eyewear. This can significantly reduce the risk of injury.
- Be Cautious with Novelty Items: Toys that may seem fun, like laser pointers, fireworks, or certain light-up toys, can pose serious eye risks. Laser pointers, in particular, have been involved in numerous eye injuries, even when used casually. Parents should check for toy safety certifications and be wary of novelty items that might not meet safety standards.
Teaching Safe Play Practices
In addition to physical precautions, it’s important to teach children about safe play. Encourage them never to aim toys at someone’s face or eyes, even if it seems like harmless fun. Talk to them about the importance of using toys responsibly and respecting others’ safety.
As part of an ongoing effort to reduce injuries, organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the CPSC continue to recommend that toys be evaluated for safety before being sold, with particular attention to how they could impact children’s eyes.
The Bottom Line: Vision Protection is Essential
Ultimately, preventing eye injuries starts with awareness. By selecting safe toys, supervising play, and educating kids on how to protect their eyes, parents can help ensure that playtime remains both fun and injury-free. After all, a child’s vision is priceless — and taking steps to protect it is one of the best gifts we can give. With proper precautions, families can enjoy worry-free play and avoid the trauma of eye injuries.
