Children's eye health: Why regular eye examinations matter
Ensuring Healthy Vision for Your Child
A child's vision plays a vital role in their development, learning, and everyday activities. Since up to 80% of a child's education is visual, undiagnosed eye issues can hinder their academic progress and social interactions. Regular eye exams help detect problems early, ensuring children have the best possible vision as they grow.
When Should Children Have Their Eyes Tested?
It is recommended that children undergo their first comprehensive eye exam at six months, followed by tests at age three and just before starting school. After that, routine check-ups every two years are essential, though children with existing vision problems should be monitored more frequently.
Signs Your Child May Have a Vision Problem
Parents should be aware of potential warning signs, including:
Frequent squinting or tilting of the head
Holding books or screens too close
Complaints of headaches or tired eyes
Struggles with reading or recognizing letters and numbers
Excessive eye rubbing or blinking
Poor coordination and clumsiness If you notice any of these behaviours, booking an eye exam is advised.
Choosing the Right Glasses for Children
Finding the proper eyewear is crucial for children who need vision correction. At Arthur Hayes Eyecare, we proudly stock Tomato Glasses explicitly designed for young wearers. These frames are lightweight, adjustable, and made from flexible materials, ensuring a comfortable fit while withstanding the demands of an active child's lifestyle. With various sizes and colours, Tomato Glasses provide both function and style, making wearing glasses a more enjoyable experience for kids.
Hairstyle Matters: Keeping Eyes Unobstructed
An often-overlooked aspect of eye care is ensuring that a child's hairstyle does not obstruct their vision. Hair falling into the eyes can cause unnecessary strain, leading to discomfort and potential focusing issues. Encouraging styles that keep hair away from the face, such as tying back long hair or opting for shorter cuts, can help maintain clear and comfortable vision.
Safe Screen Habits to Protect Young Eyes
With increased screen time becoming a part of everyday life, it is essential to instil healthy habits early. The 20-20-20 rule is an easy way to reduce eye strain: every 20 minutes, children should look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Encouraging outdoor play also gives young eyes a much-needed break from digital screens and promotes healthy visual development.
Why Early Detection is Key
Many eye conditions, such as amblyopia (lazy eye) and strabismus (crossed eyes), can be corrected more effectively if diagnosed early. Regular eye tests provide the best chance of catching these issues before they impact learning and development.
Book Your Child's Eye Test Today
Ensuring your child has a clear, healthy vision sets them up for success in school and everyday life. If your child hasn't had an eye test recently, now is the perfect time to book an appointment at Arthur Hayes Eyecare. Our friendly team is here to support your child's vision needs and help them see the world.
