August Is Here & So is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month

August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of eye care for children. Good vision is critical for your child's development, affecting their ability to learn, play, and interact with the world around them. As parents and caregivers, understanding the significance of eye health can ensure that our children grow up with the best possible vision and eye safety habits.

Why Eye Health Matters

Vision plays a crucial role in your child's cognitive and physical development. According to the American Optometric Association, 25 percent of all children, or 1 in 4 students, have a vision problem significant enough to impact their learning. Detecting and addressing vision problems early can significantly improve your child's academic performance and social interactions.

Common eye issues in children include:

• Amblyopia (Lazy Eye): A condition where one eye doesn't develop proper vision, often due to strabismus (crossed eyes) or a significant difference in prescription between the two eyes.

• Strabismus (Crossed Eyes): Misalignment of the eyes, which can lead to amblyopia if not treated.

• Refractive Errors: Conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism that are corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

Regular eye exams are crucial for detecting these issues early. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that children have their first eye exam at six months, another at three years, and again before starting school, followed by annual exams.

Contact us to book an appointment for the whole family today!