Our 4 just love it. You are correct not to shine it directly in their eyes or for that matter anywhere near their eyes, but as long as it stays ahead of them it shouldn't cause a problem. My hubby loves to play with the laser with the 4 kids. Rusty is a bit of a tubby cat so it is good to see him run around after it. The walls (not to far up) and when it hits the door they just love it. Occassionally, they actually "catch" it, but can't seem to understand why they can't grab it! Soooo much fun to watch. In time tyour boys will probably enjoy it. Ours are also easily enthralled by a sunbeam bouncing off one of our watches, same type of thing, they chase, but can't catch it.