August ain’t just a never ending heatwave, it’s a time when we celebrate Children’s Eye Health as declared by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Bless their kind souls for knowin’ the true worth of our young’uns’ peepers and their twinkle.
A child’s vision is like a magnifying glass to the world – helpin’ ’em take in all the beauty ’round ’em. It’s more than just sight; it’s a cornerstone of their development too. A child with an uncorrected vision problem might find it hard to learn and truly reach their full potential.
Guidelines recommend beginning eye exams at three years old and then every two years. A routine eye exam is crucial to keep those peepers healthy, ’cause many vision problems start early in life. Of course, if difficulties are suspected, additional exams may be needed.
Now, don’t you worry none. If you see your child squintin’, rubbin’ them eyes, or complainin’ ’bout headaches, it might be time for a chat with an eye doctor. They’ll sort out the good from the bad.Your child’s healthcare provider might give their vision a quick check during regular visits..
A vision screening ain’t the same as a proper eye exam. A vision screening’s like a friendly wave from across the street, notin’ if there’s somethin’ that needs a closer look. But a comprehensive eye exam? Well, that’s like sittin’ on the porch swing, havin’ a heart-to-heart with an old friend. An eye doctor pays’ attention to every detail and catchin’ even the tiniest speck of trouble.
Troubles with the eyes are common and plenty. Strugglin’ with readin’ and writin’, it might be sneaky refractive errors causin’ a ruckus. These errors, they’re like a misstep when you’re dancing – myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism mess with how light kisses the retina, causin’ blurred vision. Then there’s amblyopia, that little troublemaker. It messes up communication between the brain and an eye. And strabismus, well, it’s like a dance partner not followin’ the steps – them eyes ain’t lookin’ at the same thing at the same time. And oh, goodness, we can’t forget convergence insufficiency. That one creates all kinds of havoc with how them eyes focus on close-up things, like readin’ a letter.
Our Highland Rebels are super fortunate that the Highland School Clinic has Dr. Ellis coming monthly to check on their peepers. The school nurses will refer any child that fails their routine vision screening. The parents are then notified and the School Based Vision Clinic Program services are offered. If teachers suspect a problem, they too can make a referral. Lastly, concerned parents can call the school to request a referral.
Tips For protect them young eyes:
First up, good eatin’! Just like a Southern spread, a healthy diet loaded with fruits and veggies can keep them peepers sparklin’. And remember, darlin’, you’re their role model, so show ’em how it’s done.
Next, let’s talk screen time. Too much of it ain’t good for their young eyes. Just like takin’ a break, havin’ screen-free intervals and takin’ breaks is essential.
Now, don’t skimp on sleep! Nighttime’s when their eyes rest and rejuvenate, just like a Southern belle restin’ on a veranda.
Outdoorsy days are a must! Them eyes need to stretch and flex like a cotton field in the breeze. And while they’re at it, they’ll soak in some of that good ol’ Vitamin D.
Now, before y’all hit the road, don’t forget those shades. Sunglasses ain’t just for lookin’ cool – they’re like a parasol, protectin’ young eyes from the sun’s rays.
And if your child’s a sporty one, don’t skip the protective eyewear. Just like a pair of boots for line dancin’, they’ll keep ’em safe from any eye-poppin’ surprises.
So here’s to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the National Eye Institute,
To ensure your young’un’s eyes stay as bright as an Arkansas sunrise, make sure they get their recommended eye exams.
Just for FUN! Kids can check out the National Eye Institute web site:
https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/nei-for-kids
