“You’ll shoot your eye out, kid!”
That iconic line is Santa’s response to 9-year-old Ralphie’s request for a Red Ryder BB gun in the 1983 holiday classic A Christmas Story. While Santa’s definitely on to something here, there’s more to know about toys and eye safety as you shop for the little ones in your life.
Our eyes are delicate organs and even seemingly minor injuries can cause pain, infection, or even vision loss. According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), there are over 250,000 toy-related injuries every year, and many of these eye injuries are from toys with sharp points or projectiles.
5 tips for ensuring eye safe toys
- Choose age-appropriate toys: The age guidelines on the packaging are there for a reason. Small parts are not only choking hazards; they can come loose and cause abrasions when not handled properly. Also, projectiles like foam darts and slingshots are a major cause of eye injury in children of all ages and aren’t appropriate for younger children who may not have the judgment or coordination to play with them safely. Avoid chemistry sets for children younger than 12 years old, and be sure older children understand safe handling of these toys, as well as using safety gear including eye protection.
- Demonstrate proper play: Show kids how to use toys safely and correctly right away. Make sure they understand it’s not safe to point or throw anything at anyone’s face. Supervise your kids as much as possible while they play.
- Avoid sharp edges and points: Toy swords, building kits, and other toys can pose a danger when not handled correctly. Consider looking for soft materials and rounded edges, especially for younger children.
- Look for sturdy toys and inspect them regularly: Even well-made toys can become damaged, resulting in sharp edges. Check toys on a regular basis and fix or throw out the ones that are damaged. Store toys between play sessions to avoid damage.
- Ensure that safety gear is included when gifting toys or equipment related to sports.
Lastly, just as Santa warned, BB guns pose a risk for kids’ safety, including the health of their eyes. While these tips can greatly reduce the risk of eye injury, even the most attentive caregivers can’t prevent every accident. If your child does suffer an eye injury, stay calm, keep the child from rubbing their eyes and seek medical attention right away.
