Tips for Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, an important reminder for families to prioritize their children’s vision and overall eye health. At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our ophthalmology team is committed to helping parents understand how early eye care can make a lasting difference.
From routine eye exams to everyday habits that promote healthy vision, there’s a lot you can do to support your child’s eye development and prevent avoidable injuries or conditions. In this blog, we’ll share five ways to help protect your child’s vision and ensure they’re set up for long-term eye health.
1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams
Routine eye exams are a vital part of your child’s overall health and development. Vision problems can impact learning, behavior, and self-esteem, especially if they go undetected.
Key milestones for pediatric eye exams include:
- At birth and during well-child visits: Pediatricians screen for basic eye function.
- Around age 3–5: A comprehensive eye exam by a pediatric ophthalmologist or optometrist can detect common conditions like amblyopia (lazy eye) or strabismus (eye misalignment).
- Before starting school: Ensures your child can see the board, read books, and focus properly in the classroom.
Our ophthalmology team offers age-appropriate exams and guidance for any follow-up care if issues are found.
2. Promote Good Screen Habits
With more children using digital devices for both learning and entertainment, screen time has become a major concern for eye health. Prolonged use can lead to digital eye strain, which may cause headaches, dry eyes, and difficulty focusing.
To reduce screen-related eye issues:
- Encourage the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away.
- Limit recreational screen time, especially before bed.
- Ensure screens are positioned at eye level and at a comfortable distance.
3. Protect Their Eyes During Sports and Play
Active kids are more likely to experience eye injuries, especially when playing contact sports or using projectiles like toy darts or balls.
To prevent accidents:
- Use protective eyewear made of polycarbonate material when playing sports like baseball, basketball, or racquetball.
- Avoid toys with sharp edges or high-impact components.
- Supervise young children during play and model safe behavior.
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 90% of serious eye injuries are preventable with proper protection.
4. Feed Their Eyes: Nutrition Matters
A balanced diet supports healthy vision. Nutrients such as vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and vitamin C are essential for eye development.
Kid-friendly eye-healthy foods include:
- Carrots and sweet potatoes
- Leafy greens like spinach and kale
- Fish such as salmon and tuna
- Eggs, citrus fruits, and berries
Encouraging healthy eating habits from a young age benefits the eyes and the body as a whole.
5. Be Alert to Vision Changes
Children don’t always recognize when something is wrong with their vision. As a parent or caregiver, it’s important to watch for signs such as:
- Frequent squinting or tilting of the head
- Holding books or devices too close
- Eye rubbing or excessive tearing
- Complaints of headaches or blurry vision
Early intervention is key. If you notice any of these signs, schedule an eye exam as soon as possible. Our ophthalmology specialists can help you understand what’s going on and what steps to take next.
Caring for Children’s Eyes at The Medical Group of New Jersey
At The Medical Group of New Jersey, our experienced ophthalmology team is here to support your child’s vision at every stage of development. Whether it’s a routine exam, a concern about symptoms, or the need for protective eyewear, we provide expert, compassionate care tailored to growing eyes.
This Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, take a moment to prioritize your child’s vision. It’s a small step with lifelong benefits.