Ophthalmologists have long cautioned against purchasing toys that pose a danger to children’s eyes. This year we’re adding digital devices to our usual list of BB guns, Nerf guns, and slingshots. That’s because evidence is mounting that too much screen time and not enough time outside may be behind the recent rise in nearsightedness in children. To help, the Wisconsin Academy of Ophthalmology and the American Academy of Ophthalmology released a screen-free holiday gift guide focused on healthy kids and healthy eyes.

“As a parent, I know how hard it is to limit screen time, but several new studies conducted during the pandemic show increased time on digital devices for online learning and entertainment may be causing an increase in nearsightedness among children,” said Dianna Seldomridge, MD, clinical spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology. “So, in addition to cautioning parents to avoid toys with sharp, protruding or projectile parts, we’re asking parents to consider gifts that encourage kids to step away from their screens.”

A Sneak-Peak of What Ophthalmologists are Buying Their Kids

·       Arts & crafts supplies for all ages. Get their creative juices flowing with paint sets, coloring books, easels, jewelry beads for younger kids or knitting/sewing kits for older kids. Just make sure to check the recommended age group on each before buying.

·       Outdoor inspired gifts. Sports equipment like snow gear, roller skates, hiking boots, or the classic bicycle gift are all good ways to encourage healthy outdoor play. Have a kid athlete in your life? Get them the right protective eyewear for their sport of choice. For skiers or snowboarders, that means UV-protected goggles — cold weather does not shield the eyes from the sun!

Want to Learn More?

View the full holiday gift guide that ophthalmologists are using this year. For more information about the rise in nearsightedness in children, watch the Academy’s YouTube video.