August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining good eye health in young ones. Set your children up for a lifetime of healthy vision from a young age. In this blog post, we’ll share some key facts about children’s eye health and tips for keeping their eyes in top condition.
Facts about children’s eye health
Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month focuses on promoting healthy vision in children. One way to do that is to share information about children’s eye health. For example, did you know that 80% of learning is visual during a child’s first 12 years? It’s true, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
What’s more, about one in four school-age children need vision treatment. Vision issues often go undetected in younger children. However early detection is key to optimal eye health. Many eye conditions, such as amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (crossed eyes), can be successfully treated if detected early. Regular eye exams are essential to identify issues before they become more serious.
Another fact about children’s eye health is like adults, their eyes are sensitive to UV rays. So, protect their eyes with UV-protection sunglasses when doing outdoor activities and more. Along with routine eye exams, there are other steps parents and caregivers can take to promote healthy vision in their children.
Tips for healthy eyes in children
Celebrate Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month when you and your children:
Know what to look for
Common signs that there could be an eye health issue include frequent rubbing, squinting, tilting or turning the head to see an object. Additional signs could be misaligned eyes, complaining of headaches or blurry vision.
Eat healthy
Nutrient matters. A diet rich in nutrients like vitamins A, C and E and omega-3 fatty acids can support healthy vision in children. Provide a variety of fruits, vegetables and fish for your children to try that are rich in those nutrients.
Limit screen time
Set limits on the amount of screen time your child has each day. Children should take frequent breaks and participate in other near-vision activities such as reading, writing and drawing.
Get plenty of sleep
When we sleep, our bodies and eyes repair. And your child’s eyes may take longer to heal from frequent use or environmental irritants if they don’t get enough sleep.
Spend time outside
Let your kids play games outside to help healthy eye development, from playing sports to having a scavenger hunt. Going outside enables kids to focus on far-off items. This allows their eyes to recuperate from weariness and strain. Children who play outside get vital vitamin D and benefit from physical activity.
Summary
Finally, prepare your children for the classroom and athletics this August by scheduling their next comprehensive eye exam during Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month. Visit your local Mississippi Eye Care clinic for all your family’s vision needs. Keep reading our blogs for more eye care tips and vision health news.
