8 Tips for Children’s Vision Health and Function

Keeping your child's eyes healthy is important for their overall well-being and development. Sometimes as parents, we get so busy that vision health is often forgotten. The good news is that maintaining healthy eyes is relatively easy compared to dental care. Here are some tips to promote good eye health in children:

1. Regular eye examinations:

The American Optometric Association recommends complete eye examinations for your child beginning at 6 to 12 months of age, at least once between 3 and 5 years of age, and at least once before first grade and annually, or as recommended by your doctor. Early detection of eye conditions is crucial for effective treatment and it is important to note that eye screenings at school, by a pediatrician is not as thorough as a complete eye examination.

2. Limit screen time:

Encourage your child to take regular breaks from screens, such as computers, tablets, smartphones, and televisions. Just as adults, children can develop a condition called Accommodative Dysfunction from spending too much time in front of a screen. This condition results in blurred vision up close and/or far away.

Encourage your child to take frequent breaks when engaging in tasks that require prolonged near focus, such as reading or using electronic devices. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at an object 20 feet away.

3. Engage in outdoor activities:

Spending time outdoors exposes children to natural light, which is beneficial for their eye health. Outdoor activities also help prevent myopia (nearsightedness) progression.

4. Healthy diet:

Provide a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and foods containing omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish. These nutrients support eye health and reduce the risk of age-related eye conditions.

5. Adequate lighting:

Ensure that your child's study area and play spaces have proper lighting to prevent eye strain. Avoid excessive glare and provide ample natural light or use artificial lighting sources.

6. Proper distance and posture:

Teach your child to maintain a proper distance from screens while using electronic devices. They should be sitting at a distance where they can comfortably read or view the screen without straining their eyes. Encourage good posture while reading or using electronic devices.

7. Protective eyewear:

Ensure your child wears appropriate protective eyewear when participating in sports or activities that may pose a risk to their eyes. This includes using helmets with face shields for certain sports.

8. Avoid rubbing eyes:

Teach your child not to rub their eyes excessively, as this can cause irritation and potential damage.

9. Maintain a clean environment:

Keep your child's living and playing areas clean to minimize the risk of eye infections. Encourage regular handwashing and avoid sharing personal items like towels and pillows.

Remember, if you notice any signs of eye discomfort or changes in your child's vision, consult an eye care professional for further evaluation and guidance. Medicaid and most insurances cover annual exams for children. Below is a list of optometrist’s offices that specialize in pediatric vision care.

Colorado

Adventure Dental, Vision & Orthodontics - Aurora, Denver, Commerce City, Greeley, Lakewood, Longmont

Academy Kids - Colorado Springs, Pueblo

Kansas

Adventure Dental and Vision - Kansas City, Topeka, Wichita

Maryland

Adventure Dental, Vision & Orthodontics - Baltimore, Essex

New Mexico

Adventure Dental, Vision & Orthodontics - Albuquerque, Santa Fe

Oklahoma

Adventure Dental & Vision - Midwest City

Pediatric Dental and Vision Care- Tulsa

Washington DC

Adventure Dental, Vision & Orthodontics - DC, Landover Hills