Your child's ability to see the world relies on healthy eyes. By teaching them how to care for their eyes, you help protect them from injury and ensure their eyes and vision remain healthy in the long run. Here are our 5 top eye care tips for kids.

Good Eye Care Habits for Children

1. Maintain a Healthy Diet and Drink Plenty of Water

A nutritious diet and healthy eyes go hand in hand. Encourage your child to eat healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables, and prioritize foods rich in vitamin A. Another thing to look out for is hydration. Proper hydration plays a key role in maintaining healthy eyes and a healthy body.

2. Wear Eye Protection

Physical activity is enjoyable and healthy, but make sure your child is wearing the right protective eyewear, like safety goggles, anytime they participate in sports or activities that could cause an eye injury. Furthermore, provide your child with good UV-blocking sunglasses to protect their eyes from the sun's UV radiation.

3. Give The Eyes a Rest

Staring at the school board and school books all day, followed by playing video games or watching TV in the evening can cause eye strain. Be sure your child gets sufficient sleep to allow their eyes to rest.

4. Reduce Time Spent on Digital Devices

Spending time on digital devices and staring at screens is an integral part of our lives. Try to reduce the amount of time your child spends on the screen by getting your child to participate in other activities, such as sports. And when using digital devices, get them into the habit of taking frequent breaks.

5. Get Their Eyes Checked Regularly

School-aged children's vision can change often, and unexpectedly, until the late teenage years. Left uncorrected, poor eyesight can interfere with learning, and cause behavioral and attention issues.

Ensure your child's eyes are being cared for properly by scheduling an eye exam with Optique Family Vision Care in Springfield today. Your child's eye doctor can further educate them on eye safety and answer any questions you or your child may have.