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Community Corner

Keep Eye Safety in Mind When Choosing Toys

This holiday season, ophthalmologists urge parents to select toys for their children that are safe for their eyes.

According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, nearly 250,000 toy-related injuries were treated at emergency rooms in the United States last year, and ophthalmologists are hoping that parents keep eye safety in mind when choosing gifts this holiday season. 

“With so many toys being recalled or having the potential to cause injuries, many of my patient’s parents are wondering what toys are safe,” said David Wheeler, MD, pediatric ophthalmologist and clinical correspondent for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “A good rule of thumb that I often share with parents is to choose a toy that is appropriate for their child's age, abilities, and their willingness to supervise their child’s use of the toy.”

Nearly three-quarters of patients seen at ERs for toy-related injuries were children under the age of 15, which is why the American Academy of Ophthalmology is sharing these tips on how to choose safe toys for kids:

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* Avoid purchasing toys with projectile, sharp, or protruding parts.

* When giving sports equipment, make sure to also supply protective eyewear with polycarbonate lenses.

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* Make sure children have appropriate supervision when playing with toys that could cause injury.

* Check labels, and purchase gifts that are appropriate for a child’s age and maturity.

* Keep toys for older children away from younger children.

“Being aware and thoughtful about what you are putting in your children’s hands is the best preventative medicine,” Wheeler said.

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