There are few feelings that are more gratifying than watching the eyes of your loved ones light up when they open a cherished gift. This is especially true with children.
While opening gifts is exciting, keeping an eye out for hidden dangers that may result in eye injuries (particularly with kids) is important.
Gift Safety Stats
A 2023 study conducted by the Consumer Product Safety Commission estimated that more than 200,000 toy-related injuries were treated in U.S. hospital emergency departments in 2022, three-fourths of which were suffered by children younger than 15 years old. Injuries to the head and face (including the eye and surrounding area) made up 47% of the estimated total.
Toys – including sports equipment, objects that shoot projectiles, have detachable small parts, feature lasers, or have sharp edges and/or pointed tips – are all at an increased risk of causing eye injuries to users, particularly in younger children. Eye strain, while not an injury, can also cause discomfort for children who intensely or prolongedly use toys or devices with screens.
Additionally, the act of gift opening itself can put eyes at risk if not done safely, particularly regarding using scissors, knives or other sharp objects to open packaging.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology has recently published a holiday gift guide offering eye-safe suggestions for your shopping lists.
Tips for Safe Gift Giving
To help ensure your family enjoys a happy, safe holiday season, consider these tips to minimize eye injury risk:
- Avoid giving scissors, knives or other sharp objects to younger children to use in opening presents or packaging. When possible, consider putting gifts in easy-to-open boxes or gift bags.
- Check a toy’s packaging for age recommendations, as many toy-related child eye injuries are caused by toys designed for older kids.
- Store potentially hazardous items, such as toys with sharp edges and/or pointed tips, in a safe place when not in use and teach children to use such items carefully.
- If purchasing a gift/toy with an increased potential for eye injuries (projectile shooter, laser product, sharp/pointed object, sports equipment, etc.), consider buying protective eyewear as part of the gift and encourage its use during playtime.
- If your child is using a device with a screen, consider setting screen time restrictions to reduce the risk of eye strain.
As always, please seek immediate medical attention if you or your child suffers an injury to the eye.
Healthy Vision: The Best Gift of All
Consider starting the New Year off on a healthy note by scheduling a comprehensive eye exam for you and your loved ones. You can schedule an appointment with one of our friendly providers by calling 406-656-8886.
Wishing you and your family a merry holiday season!
From all of us at Bauer & Clausen Optometry
