Daily Eye Care Tips

Protecting children's vision goes beyond regular eye exams; it requires cultivating good daily habits. Establishing these habits early can effectively prevent nearsightedness and other vision problems.

1. Increase Outdoor Activity

Research confirms that increasing daily outdoor time significantly reduces the incidence of myopia in children. Natural light stimulates retina dopamine secretion, which helps inhibit excessive eye growth.

• Recommended Time: At least 2 hours of outdoor activity daily.
• Sun Protection: Remember to wear UV-blocking sunglasses or a hat in strong sunlight to protect eyes from UV damage.

2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Prolonged near work is a major cause of vision deterioration. Teach children this simple rule:

• Every 20 minutes of near work,
• Look at something 20 feet (6 meters) away,
• For at least 20 seconds.

3. Maintain Correct Posture

Poor posture increases eye strain. Ensure that:

• Distance: Keep eyes at least 30-40 cm away from books or screens.
• Lighting: Avoid reading in dim light. For right-handed children, light should come from the left rear to avoid shadows.
• Screen Position: Computer screens should be 15-20 degrees below eye level to minimize eye exposure and reduce dry eye risk.

4. Balanced Diet

Eyes need nutrition too! Include foods rich in eye-friendly vitamins:

• Vitamin A: Carrots, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens (helps night vision).
• Lutein & Zeaxanthin: Spinach, kale, corn (protects retina from blue light).
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Fatty fish like salmon, tuna (prevents dry eyes).