Posted by: Eye Health Northwest in Uncategorized on December 1, 2025
December brings joy, celebrations, and the excitement of gift-giving. However, the holiday season also brings hidden dangers that can affect your child’s vision. Roughly 1 in 10 children’s eye injuries that end up in the emergency room are caused by toys.
This December is Safe Toys and Celebrations Month, making it the perfect time to learn how to choose gifts that protect your child’s eyes and to celebrate safely.
Deciding Whether a Toy is Safe for Your Child’s Eyes
Before purchasing any toy, take the time to inspect it carefully. Look for toys without sharp edges or points that could accidentally poke a child’s eye.
The toy should be sturdy enough to withstand drops and impacts without breaking into dangerous pieces. Avoid anything that shoots objects or includes parts that fly off, as these create serious risks for eye injuries.
Age-appropriateness also matters more than you might think. Toys designed for older children often have features that can be harmful to younger kids. When you see an age guideline on a package, follow it.
Look for the ASTM label, which means the toy has met safety standards set by the American Society for Testing and Materials for your child’s age group. This certification gives you confidence that the toy has passed essential safety inspections.
Smart Shopping Strategies for Holiday Gifts
When selecting holiday gifts for your children, follow these tips to ensure your celebrations stay safe and full of cheer:
Check for Small Parts and Choking Hazards
Children under three years old tend to put objects in their mouths, which creates risks beyond just choking. Small magnets and button batteries are particularly dangerous because they can cause serious internal injuries if swallowed.
Use the toilet paper roll test: if a toy or toy part fits inside a toilet paper roll, it’s not safe for children under three. This simple check can prevent tragic accidents during the holidays.
Avoid Toys with Projectiles and Sharp Objects
The American Academy of Ophthalmology specifically warns parents to avoid toys that launch projectiles. BB guns, crossbows, and any toys that shoot objects can cause devastating eye injuries.
Even foam darts and toy arrows carry risks when aimed at faces. Similarly, avoid gifts with pointed ends, such as toy swords, sharp pens, or pencils designed for play. While these might seem like fun gifts, they pose a serious risk to children’s vision during active play.
Look for Safety Certifications and Appropriate Protective Gear
When you’re shopping, prioritize toys with proper safety labels. The ASTM certification tells you the manufacturer followed testing standards. If you’re giving sports equipment, such as skateboards or bicycles, include protective gear in your gift.
A helmet should always be worn when riding wheeled toys. This teaches children early that safety equipment is part of using their new toys properly.
Protect Your Family’s Vision This Holiday Season
Being thoughtful about toy selection and celebration safety keeps the holidays joyful instead of stressful. Taking a few extra minutes to inspect toys and follow safety guidelines protects your children’s eyes during this busy season.
December’s focus on safe toys and celebrations reminds us that prevention is always better than treatment. If you have more questions about holiday eye safety or want to schedule an eye exam for your child, contact EyeHealth Northwest in Portland, OR, today!
