It’s obvious that toddlers and premature children learn and develop their cognitive sense with their immediate surrounding along with the elements they’re exposed to.
This includes toys that are carefully selected by concerned parents as infants are born with an undeveloped/immature visual system which needs appropriate stimulation sources thereby promoting normal vision development.
Let’s not forget that most of the childhood accidents happen at home and with the toys they play with so parents and elders need to ensure the toys are safe for overall child’s health, especially the eyes. The only reason some toys are unsuitable for children is that they aren’t age-appropriate so, let’s have a look at how toys and eye safety are correlated.
Match the Toys to Your Child’s Age
Along with the factor of age-appropriateness comes the necessity of developmental or cognitive aptness which is important for the child’s safety and the toys you buy for them.
You must’ve noticed that children toys and other goods come with a particular age label such as 3+ Years and so on. And if your child put things in his mouth or throw them while playing, be sure to get the toys that are safe from all such aspects.
Make sure the quality of the toys is exceptional so that they don’t break apart while playing and double-check that the paint or finish on these is non-toxic.
All the stuffed and plush toys have to be machine washable without any tiny pieces which makes them safe for the eyes especially. Also ensure that holders and handles of particular toys are circular whereas you, as a parent or guardian should always keep a close watch when the child’s playing.
Toys to Avoid
Children who’re diagnosed with retinopathy of prematurity or perhaps underwent treatment for the same at birth need extra attention and carefulness with the objects and toys they’re exposed to. This is because any mishap, be it big or small can be extremely dangerous for overall health and safety. For slightly grown-up children who play with woodworking tools and chemistry set must wear safety goggles to keep the eyes protected.
Simply avoid toys that shoot objects like dart guns, bow-and-arrow, slingshots and so on. For the six years old or a bit older, closely monitor them if they play with all such toys. When shopping for special occasions, pay attention to age and development recommendation as labelled on the packaging. Most of the parents, grandparents and even close friends tend to buy toys that simply look “neat & fun to play with” while disregarding age and safety, which must be avoided though.
Age & Toy Suggestions
Have a look at some age-appropriate toys that promotes visual and cognitive development among the children with hand-eye coordination and spatial correlations. Rattles, stuffed animals, balls, building block sets with soft and circular corners, activity gyms and measuring toys like cups and kitchen sets. Finger paints, modeling clay, pop-up books/visual guides, jigsaw puzzles and such are other great choices.
In the end, it all depends on the parents and their decision on buying safe toys for the children.
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