September is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month—a timely reminder for parents that healthy vision is essential to every child’s growth, learning, and play. From classrooms to playgrounds, kids rely on their eyesight to explore and understand the world around them. Protecting their eyes today can prevent lifelong vision challenges tomorrow.
Parents often focus on updating their child’s eyewear before the school year, but safety is just as important as clarity. Sports, digital devices, and outdoor activities all present unique risks for young eyes. By taking a few proactive steps, families can help children enjoy every adventure with strong, healthy vision.
Sports and Recreation Eye Safety
Children are active, and sports can put their eyes at risk of injury. Activities like baseball, basketball, soccer, and racquet sports are among the leading causes of eye-related injuries in kids. Fortunately, most of these injuries are preventable with the right protective gear.
- Use polycarbonate sports goggles or face shields designed for impact resistance.
- Make sure protective eyewear fits comfortably and does not obstruct vision.
- Encourage kids never to play sports in regular eyeglasses, which can break and cause further injury.
Eye safety on the field doesn’t just reduce the chance of an accident—it also gives kids the confidence to focus on their game without worrying about their vision.
Limiting Digital Screen Strain
From tablets to laptops, children spend more time on screens than ever before, both for school and recreation. Excessive screen use can lead to digital eye strain, causing symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, or difficulty focusing.
Parents can help by encouraging the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Creating tech-free times—like during meals or before bedtime—also gives kids’ eyes a much-needed rest. In addition, blue light–filtering lenses can be an excellent option for children who spend long hours on screens.
Sun Protection for Outdoor Play
Children’s eyes are more vulnerable to UV damage because their lenses are clearer than adults’, letting in more harmful rays. Whether at recess or on a family hike, sunglasses are just as important as sunscreen.
Look for sunglasses that:
- Block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.
- Are made of durable, shatter-resistant materials.
- Fit your child’s face comfortably to ensure consistent wear.
A wide-brimmed hat can provide an extra layer of protection on sunny days, helping safeguard their eyes from long-term damage like cataracts or macular degeneration later in life.
The Importance of Regular Eye Exams
Even if your child’s eyes appear healthy, comprehensive eye exams remain essential. Routine checkups allow optometrists to detect early signs of vision problems or underlying health conditions before they become serious. Clear, comfortable vision supports better performance in the classroom, at home, and during play.
At Kosnoski Eye Care, we recommend annual eye exams for children to ensure they are ready to take on each new school year with confidence.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam in Washington
Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month is the perfect opportunity to prioritize your child’s vision. By taking steps to prevent injuries, reduce digital strain, and protect against the sun, you’re giving them the tools to thrive at school and beyond.
At Kosnoski Eye Care, we’re here to support your child’s lifelong vision health. Visit us at one of our 5 convenient locations in Washington , or request an appointment online.
Frequently Asked Questions
At what age should my child have their first eye exam? The American Optometric Association recommends a first comprehensive eye exam at 6–12 months of age, again at age 3, and before starting school. After that, yearly exams are best.
How can I tell if my child has digital eye strain? Signs include squinting, frequent eye rubbing, complaints of tired eyes, or holding screens very close to their face.
Are sunglasses really necessary for children? Yes. UV protection is crucial for young eyes, and sunglasses with 100% UVA/UVB protection are highly recommended.
Should kids wear protective eyewear for casual play, not just sports? If play involves potential hazards—like riding bikes, using toys with projectiles, or outdoor activities with sticks or balls—protective eyewear is a smart precaution.