Vision can affect your child’s development in many ways to include how they socialize and how they learn and interact with the world.
The American Optometric Association recommends an eye exam between 6 and 12 months of age, between the ages of 3 and 5 years, just prior to entering first grade, and yearly afterwards. For more information about eye exams for children, visit https://www.aoa.org.
In addition to eye exams, it’s important to keep the eyes as healthy as possible. The National Eye Institute (NEI) identified 10 Healthy Vision Tips for children:
- Eat right to protect your sight. Eat a well-balanced diet that includes different types of fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens. Fish like salmon, tuna, and halibut can help, too.
- Get moving. Exercise can create a healthier body and help prevent diseases such as diabetes that can lead to vision problems.
- Speak up if your vision changes. If your vision changes, you find yourself squinting to see clearly, your eyes bother you, or if you have trouble seeing things at school, tell a parent.
- Wear your glasses. Keep them clean and free from smudges and scratches. Ask an adult how to clean and store them properly.
- Keep the germs away. Wash your hand before putting them close to your eyes. If you wear contacts, learn how to keep them clean and safe.
- Gear up to protect your eyes. Whether you play sports, mow the grass, or use chemicals in science class, wear the right eye protection to keep your eyes safe from injuries.
- Wear your shades. The sun’s rays can hurt your eyes. Never look directly at the sun. Wear sunglasses that block 99%-100% of UVA and UVB radiation from the sun.
- Give your eyes a break from looking at a screen too long. Remember the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look about 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Say no to smoking. It’s as bad for your eyes as it is for the rest of your body.
- Talk about it. Talking about eye health with your family is important for everyone.
Children deserve bright futures. Early detection of eye problems ensures the best outcome in childhood and beyond. For more information about eye health for kids, go to https://www.nei.nig.giv/learn-about-eye-health/nei-for-kids.