The holidays are a special time for many, especially for kids. This season means spending time with loved ones and gift-giving. In today’s post, your trusted eye doctor suggests some helpful tips on buying eye-friendly toys for your children as we observe Safe Toys and Gifts Month in December.
Look for Developmentally Appropriate Toys
Toys usually have a label with a recommended age range. Toys in a given age range are designed to be safe for kids that age and can help children achieve certain developmental milestones. Mobiles with large, colorful items, for example, are great at stimulating an infant’s visual reflexes.
Think Big
Your optometrist encourages giving your young children big toys. Large toys often consist of big pieces with sturdier construction, making them less likely to break and cause eye injuries.
Say No to Toy Guns
Although toy guns and other toys with projectile features may appeal to your kids, they can cause eye accidents. Steer away from sharp-edged toys as well. Better yet, look for the American Society for Testing and Materials seal to make sure that the toy has undergone and passed national safety criteria.
Have Your Child’s Eyes Checked
Vision problems may prevent your children from seeing their toys or playmates clearly, putting them at risk of sustaining eye injuries. Before taking them to the toy store, visit your trusted optometrist for an eye exam. We may prescribe contact lenses or eyeglasses to improve their eyesight.
For more tips on choosing eye-safe children’s toys, call us at (703) 291-0080 or complete our form. We serve Alexandria, Arlington and nearby areas in Northern Virginia.