If you're anything like the average person, you're probably right in the midst of holiday shopping. Unfortunately, a number of innocent children get injured from an unsuspecting toy every year. When purchasing toys for your little ones, make sure you are choosing toys that won't pose any risk to their eye health.

Double Check Lasers

If you are considering the purchase of a toy that contains lasers, make sure it is compliant to avoid an eye injury. Don't purchase the toy unless it clearly states on the packaging that it is 21 CFR compliant. A toy that meets this standard has a laser that operates with a safe radiation-emitting level.

Toys that don't meet this criterion put the safety of your child's eyes at risk, may cause blindness and should be avoided. In addition to this rating, make sure are taking the time to speak with your child about safe play. Expressing the importance of not aiming the laser in anyone eyes or towards a reflective surface, such as a car, is a good place to begin.

Don't Forget Eyewear

If you're purchasing a toy that is designed to project objects, such as a nerf launcher, don't forget eyewear. Some parents overlook this purchase when buying these types of toys, but even a small object that gets launched into a child's eyes can produce a number of injuries including traumatic cataract and corneal abrasion.

When choosing an eyewear for your child to wear when playing with these toys, you want to look for options that are designed with polycarbonate lenses. Even when met with force, such as the child falling, this material is designed not to shatter in the child's eyes.

Look At The Entire Toy

Even if you are choosing a seemingly safe toy, it's important that you are looking over the entire toy before you decide to purchase. Take a large doll house with a slanted roof, for example. It seems completely harmless on the surface.

However, if the child is around the height of the house, the roof's pointed edges could pose a safety hazard should the child accidentally trip and fall near the house. Take a few moments to replay several scenarios in your head before making your decision to ensure you are choosing a toy that is safe.  

Toys are meant to be fun, not dangerous. Make sure you are choosing toys that your child will enjoy and that don't pose a danger to their eyes this season.  For more information, contact physicians like Todd S. Kirk, MD.

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