Summer break is here, and while your kids are busy enjoying longer days and outdoor adventures, it's the perfect time to focus on their eye health. Did you know UV exposure during childhood can significantly impact their vision later in life? Or that all that screen time when lounging indoors could strain their eyes? Luckily, we've got four easy ways to help safeguard your little one's eyes this summer!
Why Eye Health Matters in Summer
When it comes to UV exposure, kids' eyes are much more vulnerable than adults' eyes. Their developing eyes absorb more UV rays from the sun, which increases their risk for cataracts and retinal damage over time. And while summer BBQs and family trips to the beach are fun, they often come with seasonal allergens, extra screen time, and skipped eye exams. Each of these could lead to discomfort or bigger challenges down the road.
Here's how you can be proactive and keep your child's vision sharp all summer long.
1. Protect Their Eyes from Harmful UV Rays
Sunscreen for their skin? Check. Sunscreen for their eyes? Don't forget it!
Invest in a good pair of sunglasses with 100% UV protection. They help block not only the sun but also sand, wind, and allergens. Bonus points if they come in your kid's favorite color or with a playful design!
The best times for outdoor play are early morning or late evening. Remember, the sun's UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., so try to plan indoor activities during these hours.
2. Manage Summer Screen Time Like a Pro
Vacations and no homework often double as excuses for gaming marathons and binge-watching movies. But excessive screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, which causes headaches, blurry vision, and dry eyes.
Here are a few simple hacks to managing screen time for kids this summer:
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Encourage your child to take a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away after every 20 minutes of screen time.
- Create tech-free zones at dinner or during playtime.
- Blue Light-Filtering Glasses can help reduce strain from screens.
3. Allergy-Proof Those Summer Adventures
Does your kid come back from park visits with itchy, irritated eyes? Summer often leads to heightened exposure to pollen and other allergens that can make outdoor play uncomfortable.
Here's how to help:
- Use dry eye solutions to soothe irritation. Keep a drops like Systane Ultra Artificial Tears handy in your summer survival kit.
- Equip them with sunglasses to block allergens like dust and pollen.
4. Make the Most of Summer with a Routine Eye Exam
Summer's slower pace makes it the perfect season for scheduling routine health check-ups—including an eye exam. Kids' eyes grow and change rapidly, making annual exams essential for catching any potential issues early. Regular check-ups ensure their vision is ready for the next school year without surprises.
At Stanton Optical, eye doctors from Physicians Eyecare Group offer comprehensive eye exams for kids that are quick and family friendly. If it's been over a year since their last exam, now's the time to book one. The best part? Summer break gives you the flexibility to book a visit without cutting into school or extracurricular schedules.
Keep Their Vision Bright This Summer
Keeping your child's vision healthy during summer doesn't have to be complicated. By taking a few simple steps, like protecting their eyes from UV rays, balancing screen time, managing allergies, and booking a routine eye exam, you're setting them up for success—not just for the next school year but for a lifetime.
Make this summer not only memorable but also eye-healthy! For questions, tips, or to schedule that all-important check-up, head over to Stanton Optical. Protect your kid's vision and future!
References:
- The Vision Council - Guide to Sunglasses: An Everyday Accessory
- Optometry Times - Looking Forward to Improving and Lessening Allergic Response