August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, an opportune time for parents and guardians to brush up on facts and tips to protect kid’s sight. Here are some simple tips to help.
How to Keep Children’s Eyes Healthy
1. Eye Exams: Take your child to the eye doctor every year. The doctor can check if your child’s eyes are healthy and if glasses are needed.
2. Healthy Foods: Give your child lots of fruits and vegetables. Vegetables like carrots and leafy greens are an excellent source for vitamins A and C which can keep your child’s eyes healthy.
3. Breaks from Screens: Limit the time your child spends on screens. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, make sure they take a break from the screen every 20 minutes and focus at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
4. Sunglasses: Make sure your child wears UV protection when outside. This will protect their eyes from the sun.
Keeping Children’s Eyes Safe
1. Safety Googles: Have your child wear safety goggles when playing sports or other activities that could hurt your eyes. Visit Healthychildren.org for more details.
2. No Sharp Objects: Teach your kids not to play with sharp objects like scissors and sticks. Using these while playing can cause serious injuries.
3. No Rubbing Eyes: Tell your child not to rub your eyes, especially if something gets in them. Rubbing can make it worse.
4. Good Lighting: Make sure your child gets good lighting when reading or doing homework to prevent eye strain.
Signs Your Child Might Need an Eye Doctor
- Trouble seeing the board in class.
- Frequent headaches after reading or using screens.
- Complains of eye pain or tiredness.
As a parent or guardian, you can help keep your child’s eyes healthy. Celebrate Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month by getting an eye exam and teaching them good eye habits. Visit the National Eye Institute for more information. Taking these steps can help your child see the world clearly and enjoy all their activities safely.