How parents can help kids protect their sight

(NC) Is your child squinting at their screen? Perhaps they’re moving a book close to their face so they can see the print? Or maybe you’re getting more complaints about headaches.

These could all be signs of a child developing nearsightedness, also known as myopia. The rate of myopia in children and teens worldwide has tripled over the past 30 years, with a steep increase since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020.

Kids need eye exams, too

“Regular eye exams are important for all children,” says Naomi Barber, clinical services director at Specsavers Canada. “If myopia is diagnosed, there are contact lenses and glasses that can slow the progression of this condition.”

Although children are covered for annual eye exams in most provinces if they’re under a provincial health care plan, regular eye exams aren’t a habit for many Canadian families.

Infants and toddlers should get their first eye exam between the ages of six and nine months, according to the Canadian Association of Optometrists. After that, the guidance is at least one eye exam between the ages of two and five, and an annual eye exam from ages six to 19.

But only half of all children aged 19 and under are examined at the recommended frequency, based on a recent eyecare report. Younger children are the least likely to get an eye exam, even though many vision disorders are most effectively treated before the age of seven.

What can parents do?

There are three simple strategies for protecting children from the impact of myopia:

• Make sure they get a regular eye exam. By starting early, you can help catch any issues that may cause developmental, educational or social outcomes for your child.
• Limit screen time. Too much time spent looking at objects in close range has been linked with the progression of myopia.
• Get out and play. When spending time outdoors, a child’s sight will move from nearby items to distant ones, allowing the eyes to relax and get a break from screen time by reducing the strain of constant close-up focus.

Visiting an optometrist from a young age is important. Early intervention can help support healthy visual development. Learn more at specsavers.ca.