Holiday season is rapidly approaching and we all know what that means, gifts and new toys. Adoring grandparents enjoy surprising the favorite little ones with the coolest toys to start off the New Year.
The American Optometric Association advises that parents explain to relatives the restrictions about toy safety and vision. Injuries involving toys and games often take place, sometimes causing damage to eyes, or even blindness.
Here are some guidelines to guard children from toy related eye injuries:
When purchasing a gift, make sure it is age appropriate. Do not allow younger children to use toys and games meant for older brothers or sisters.
Demonstrate to children how to play safely. Prior to play, carefully look at new toys for safe construction.
Try not to let small kids play without supervision.
Promote eye safety awareness by throwing out any toys or games that have points, spikes, rods or firing projectiles like BB guns.
Before you buy the toy that your child has been begging for, take a moment to read up on eye safety guidelines when it comes to children's toys and games. Anyone who has ever watched ''A Christmas Story'' should have learned that already. Happy Holidays.