A Proactive Approach to Your Child’s Eye Health

From the moment your child is born, your kid’s eyes and vision will go through several changes. While children achieve vision milestones at different paces, there are things you can do to ensure your little one hits them just on time. Moreover, early detection and treatment of eye problems can help avoid issues that can hinder your child’s performance at school and in play.

Here’s how to take a proactive approach to your child’s eye health.

Encourage Your Child to Eat a Well-Balanced Diet

Studies show that nutrients like lutein, zinc, omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins A, C and E can help eye health. Incorporate fruits high in vitamins C and E into your child’s diet, such as oranges, strawberries, pineapples and mangoes. Include leafy greens that contain vitamin A, like kale and spinach, to help reduce the risk of developing dry eye and night blindness. Fish containing omega-3 fatty acids, eggs and nuts are great additions to daily meals. 

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Visiting your eye doctor regularly can help detect and treat vision problems in their early stages. Your eye doctors can recommend the appropriate eyewear for your child if wearing glasses is necessary. They can also give you tips on how you can take better care of your child’s eyes and vision. 

Increase Their Visual Engagement

Objects with contrasting colors and patterns can help boost your child’s visual engagement. Allow your child to absorb the world around them, especially when exposed to new environments. You can stimulate their hand-eye coordination with games like patty cake and peekaboo. 

Learn About Potential Issues

Many times, children don’t even realize there is something wrong with their eyes. You’ll know your little ones are experiencing vision difficulties if they are constantly tilting their head, squinting or rubbing their eyes. Holding objects too close to the eyes, light sensitivity, a lack of interest in distant objects and poor hand-eye coordination are also common indications of vision problems. 

At Nova Vision Center, we’re here to assist with your family’s vision and eye health needs. Whether you need new eyeglasses or contact lenses, our team is happy to help. Call us at (703) 578-3600, or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Alexandria and Arlington, VA, and nearby communities.