For many, December is a month full of gift-giving—especially when it comes to treating kids to holiday fun. But as you shop for presents, it’s important to keep in mind that not all toys may be safe for a child’s eyes. In honor of Safe Toys and Celebration Month, here are a few tips on selecting the best gifts for the young ones in your life—and how an eye doctor can help in the event of an emergency.

Are Toy-Related Eye Injuries Common?

Choking is usually one of the top concerns people have when selecting toys for kids. However, the possibility of toy-related eye injury should be just as worrisome. Recent statistics suggest that about ten percent of children’s ocular emergencies can be linked back to toys. Given this risk, it’s critical to choose gifts with caution.   

What Toys Can Cause Eye Injuries?

While nearly every type of toy may somehow cause an injury, there are certain products that present a higher risk of danger. As you shop, it’s best to avoid toys that involve projectiles that may hit someone in the face. You should also steer clear of items that can puncture the eye—such as those that may shatter into small pieces if broken or toy swords and wands. Lasers can also be a concern, as they may cause vision problems if directed into a child’s eye.

How Can I Help Prevent Injuries?

When selecting toys, always follow the age recommendations listed on the product packaging. If the recipient is younger than the age range listed on the package, choose something else. When kids are playing with toys, it’s also important to provide supervision so that you can respond appropriately in the event of an emergency. If the child is playing with items that can hit them in the face, it’s a good idea to have them wear safety goggles to shield their eyes from injury.

What Should You Do if a Toy Causes an Eye Injury?

If a child experienced a toy-related ocular injury, seek help from an eye doctor as soon as possible. Emergency care may be necessary if bleeding, severe pain, or vision loss are present. Eye doctors will perform a standard exam to identify physical damage, as well as check for vision loss. If a problem is present, your provider may offer treatment that supports healing and prevents further vision loss.

Whether your child is recovering from a toy-related eye injury or is due for a routine vision exam, Medical Eye Center is here to help. Serving patients of all ages in Columbia, MD, this eye doctor is equipped to diagnose vision problems and ocular diseases within a comfortable, stress-free environment. Providing everything from corrective lenses to cataract surgery, this caring team can also help you and your children see better—and protect their vision. Visit this ophthalmologist online to learn more about these services or call (410) 997-9900 to schedule a convenient appointment.