Keep the season (and your family’s eyes) safe and bright with these toy safety tips!

With the holiday season upon us, gift giving is in full swing. So it’s only appropriate that the American Academy of Ophthalmology has declared December as Safe Toys and Celebrations Month.  As parents, seeing the excitement on your child’s face as they open their presents this time of year brings a great deal of joy, especially as they open that one special toy they’ve been hoping to receive.

According to Stanford Children’s Health, toys and home playground equipment cause more than 11,000 injuries to young eyes. However, you don’t have to let toy safety concerns get in the way of your celebration – keep the season (and your family’s eyes!) safe and bright with these toy safety tips:

·       Examine toys for sharp or ragged edges. Safety regulations prohibit sharp points in new toys that are designed for use by children under eight years of age.

·       Be sure to select toys that are age-appropriate for your child.

·       When introducing new toys, be sure to show your child how to use or play with them safely and as intended.

·       Store toys away after play to prevent falls.

Visit preventblindness.org for additional tips to gift-givers to make sure gifts are safe, especially those intended for children.

Need gift ideas? Consider sunglasses with UV protection. Give us a call, and we’ll help you find the perfect gift!

Happy Holidays from all of us!