Many milestones happen during childhood that lay the foundation for lifelong visual health. That’s why it’s so important that children take good care of their eyes, and that parents encourage visual hygiene for kids.
Here are some positive habits to help children care for their eyes as they learn and grow.
Limit Your Child’s Screen Time
Turning on an episode of Peppa Pig or Cocomelon may give parents a much-needed break, but do this too often and your child could experience negative consequences. In fact, extended screen time has been linked to myopia, eye strain and eye-focusing issues in children.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting children’s screen time to only 1-2 hours per day. Parents can encourage healthy habits by removing screens during meals and bedtime. Many parents find having designated “no screen” rooms or times of day to also be beneficial.
Encourage Protective Eyewear During Sports and Outdoor Play
Children experience their fair share of injuries while running and playing, and many of these bumps and bruises are to be expected. However, eye injuries are often much more severe, and can even result in blindness. Protective goggles during outdoor play, regardless of whether or not your child needs prescription glasses, can reduce the risk of eye injury.
Demonstrate the Importance of Washing Your Hands
A recent study found that 28% of pink eye cases occurred in children ages 3-9. Children who wash their hands frequently and avoid rubbing their eyes can reduce the risk of pink eye and other eye infections.
While not all eye infections have a lasting impact on vision, they can be quite irritating and painful for children. Teach good hygiene for kids by demonstrating proper hand washing techniques.
Teach Your Child About Eye Superfoods
Many of us heard growing up that eating carrots could help us improve our eyesight. In fact, the vitamin E in carrots plays an important role in eye health. Other foods that promote good vision include peanuts, cashews, salmon, tuna and leafy greens.
Generally, foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids, beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin contain vitamins and nutrients that promote lifelong healthy eyesight. Keep a lookout for foods rich in these nutrients on your next grocery trip.
Schedule Annual Visits With Your Child’s Eye Doctor
One of the best ways to promote lifelong visual health is by scheduling regular exams with a pediatric eye doctor. Annual visits to the eye doctor can help monitor eye strain and encourage additional healthy vision habits.
Complete Eye Care of Medina takes a vested interest in pediatric eye health. Connect with us today to schedule your child’s eye appointment.