> We're taught from a young age to not put things in our eyes, and it does take time to overcome that.

I don't think we're really "taught" this, but is jut part of our innate programming. I never taught my cat anything, and I'm fairly sure if I were to put anything in her eye she would be less than happy about that, even if it doesn't hurt her.

I certainly never recall my mother telling me off for putting things in my eyes.