5 Ways to Protect and Improve Your Child's Eyesight

Your child's vision is their primary window into the world around them. Keeping their eyesight healthy is an important part of allowing them to experience life to the fullest. Here are 5 ways to protect and improve your child's eyesight.

5 Tips to Protect and Improve Your Child's Eyesight

1. Take Them to the Eye Doctor for Routine Eye Exams

One of the most important steps is keeping up with routine comprehensive eye exams. School vision screenings can only detect the most basic issues. Our eye doctors at St. Clairsville Eyecare will check for refractive errors, eye diseases, binocular vision disorders, and visual skill deficits that can hinder your child's ability to learn.

2. Limit Their Screen Time

Excessive screen time can cause eye strain, dry eye, blurry vision, headaches, and fatigue. To protect your child's long-term vision, limit their screen time and turn off devices a few hours before bedtime to allow them to wind down.

3. Encourage Them to Eat Healthy Foods and Get Exercise

Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as leafy greens and fruits high in vitamins A, C, and E, are all important for eye health. Physical activity is also good for the whole body, including the eyes. Bonus points if you can get your child outside, as sunlight and outdoor play have been shown to slow or even prevent the development of myopia.

4. Help Them Avoid Eye Injuries

Ensure that paints, cleaners, and other dangerous chemicals are put away safely. For contact and ball sports, make sure your child wears the right eyewear to protect their eyes from accidental impacts or pokes.

5. Reduce Eye Infections

Teach your child not to touch their eyes with unwashed hands. If you have contact lens wearers, ensure they wash their hands each time they handle their lenses and change them according to their intended schedule.

For more information, contact St. Clairsville Eyecare in St. Clairsville today. Call (740) 695-0444.