You’d be hard-pressed to find a kid who’s not fond of toys. As a guardian, it’s your responsibility to ensure the toys that your children play with are safe. This task can be quite overwhelming, as there’s a wide selection of toys on the market today. Today’s article from your eye doctor at NOVA Vision Center shares eye-friendly toy suggestions for kids of every age.
Newborns to 12-Month-Olds
Baby mobiles with bright colors are the top toy choice for kids in this age bracket. Make sure the mobiles are installed securely to avoid eye injuries and other accidents. The vivid colors of the hanging mobiles encourage visual development crucial for infants during this period. Rattles, balls, building blocks and puzzles with large pieces are also eye-friendly toy options.
1-Year-Olds
Non-toxic finger paints, modeling clay, stacking toys and shape sorters are only some of the toys appropriate for one-year-olds. These playthings encourage hand-eye coordination, an integral part of development in children. Around this age, your child should have already had their first appointment with an eye doctor or their first consultation with an optometrist.
2-Year-Olds
As your children begin to develop their motor skills, toys like child-sized household items encourage further hand-eye coordination and skills.
3- to 6-Year-Olds
At this age, you can start introducing your kids to large crayons, washable markers, kiddie pools, playscapes, toy cameras and board games.
7- to 10-Year-Olds
For kids this age, the best eye-friendly toys to give them would be books, musical toys or instruments, jump ropes and board games. You can also give them bicycles provided that protective gear is worn at all times.
At NOVA Vision Center, we recognize the importance of caring for your family’s visual health. We offer personalized eye care and products such as specialized contact lenses and eyeglasses. Call us today at (703) 291-0080. We work with patients in Alexandria and Arlington, VA.