12/22/2025
December is Safe Toys & Celebrations Month 👀 Protecting children’s vision starts with smart choices during playtime and celebrations. Many eye injuries are preventable with a little extra awareness.
Safe Toy Choices
• Age-Appropriate Toys: Always follow age recommendations. Toys made for older children can be dangerous for younger ones.
• No Sharp Parts: Avoid toys with rigid points, spikes, rods, or sharp edges.
• ASTM Certified: Look for the ASTM safety label, which indicates the toy meets national safety standards.
• Sturdy Construction: Choose toys that won’t break into sharp pieces or shards if dropped or struck.
• No Projectiles: Avoid toys that shoot objects or have parts that fly off. BB guns and pellet guns are NOT toys.
• Laser Pointers: Never give laser pointers to children—these can cause serious and permanent retinal damage.
Play & Craft Safety
• Supervise Play: Especially during arts, crafts, or building activities.
• Protective Eyewear: Use safety glasses for crafts, sports, or activities with flying debris.
Healthy Gift Ideas
• Screen-Free Options: Outdoor toys, books, puzzles, and creative play help reduce digital eye strain and lower injury risk.
A few thoughtful precautions can go a long way in protecting a child’s vision—for today and the future. 💙