7 Tips on How to Maintain Healthy Vision in Children: Tips for Parents

Written by Katelynn Candelario

As a parent, you want your child to grow up healthy and happy! One aspect of health that is often overlooked is vision. Good vision is crucial for a child’s overall development, including their ability to learn and participate in day to day activities. In this blog post, we will share some tips for parents on how to maintain healthy vision in their children.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

One of the most important things you can do as a parent is to schedule regular eye exams for your child. Eye exams can help detect any vision problems early on, allowing for prompt treatment. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children have their first eye exam at six months of age, followed by another exam at three years of age, and then again before starting school. After that, children should have an eye exam every two years.

Look for Signs of Eye Problems

Even if your child is not due for an eye exam, it’s important to watch out for signs of eye problems. Some common signs of vision problems in children include squinting, rubbing their eyes frequently, holding books or devices close to their face, or complaining of headaches or eye strain. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an appointment with an eye doctor.

Encourage Outdoor Activities

Spending time outdoors can help promote healthy vision in children. Outdoor activities can help reduce the risk of nearsightedness, which is a common vision problem in children. Encourage your child to spend time playing outside and limit screen time to help reduce the risk of nearsightedness.

Provide a Balanced Diet

A balanced diet can also help promote healthy vision in children. Foods that are high in vitamin A, such as carrots, sweet potatoes, and spinach, can help support healthy vision. Encourage your child to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to ensure they are getting the nutrients they need.

Use Proper Lighting

Proper lighting can also help promote healthy vision in children. Make sure your child’s room is well-lit and that they are not reading or using devices in the dark. This can help reduce eye strain and prevent vision problems.

Limit Screen Time

Excessive screen time can cause eye strain and other vision problems in children. It’s important to limit your child’s screen time and encourage them to take breaks every 20 minutes when using devices. You can also consider using blue light filters or screen protectors to help reduce eye strain.

Consider Vision Correction

If your child has a vision problem, such as nearsightedness or astigmatism, vision correction may be necessary. Glasses or contact lenses can help correct vision problems and allow your child to see clearly. It’s important to work with an eye doctor to determine the best course of treatment for your child.

As parents, it’s important to watch out for signs of vision problems and take steps to promote healthy vision in your children. By following the tips shared in this blog post, you can help ensure that your child’s vision stays healthy and strong. If you have any concerns about your child’s vision or need to schedule an eye exam, FTOC can help. Our experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing comprehensive eye care for patients of all ages. From routine eye exams to vision correction, we offer a wide range of services to help ensure healthy vision for your child. Visit our website today to learn more about our services and to schedule an appointment with one of our optometrists. By taking proactive steps to promote healthy vision in your child, you can help set them up for a lifetime of clear and comfortable vision.