In this day and age, it’s a common sight to see kids incessantly glued to their devices, be it their computers, phones, television, or game devices. And it’s no wonder we see a rise in the number of kids needing glasses at increasingly younger ages.
Besides that, these habits can lead to headaches, body aches, and dry eyes. However, you can prevent these issues by instilling good eyecare practices in your kid’s daily life.
1. Limit their time on screens
Limit your child’s time on electronic devices, such as gaming consoles, computers, and phones. As a rule of thumb, they should be taking at least a five to ten-minute break after every hour of continuous screen time. Encourage them to occupy themselves with another activity, or take a walk downstairs, before returning to their electronic device.
2. Get them out and about
Studies have suggested that outdoor activities may slow down the development of myopia in kids. Myopia is the medical term for nearsightedness which is a common vision condition in which close objects look clear but far objects look blurry.
Here’s another reason to encourage your child to spend more time playing sports, socializing, or spending time with family at the park! However, do try out those activities that require exercise or body movements so you can also boost your child’s physical fitness at the same time.
3. Avoid straining their eyes in the dark
Ensure there’s adequate lighting at home in areas where they are most active, such as the living room or bedroom. Encourage them to read a book with a large print and a light source nearby, and hold the book at a length of about 30cm. If they’re watching television, make sure they’re not sitting too close to the screen, and upright with good posture.
4. Provide a balanced diet
Like every other part of your body, the health of your eyes is influenced by what you eat. Include nutrients such as vitamins C and E, zinc, omega 3, and lutein in your child’s diet, as they can help boost your child’s eye health and reduce their risk of eye conditions. Examples include leafy vegetables, salmon, eggs, oranges, and oysters.
5. Talk to an expert
Consulting a pediatrician online for guidance about a child's eye health is an effective and convenient way to ensure good eyesight. These experts can spot vision issues early and give advice on eye exams, screen time, and what to do if there's a problem.
If you’re looking for a way to improve your child’s eye health, look no further. See an accredited doctor online, including eye care specialists (ophthalmologists), general practitioners, family medicine doctors, and pediatricians through the Doctor Anywhere app. Our doctors are available on-demand or by appointment, even on weekends and holidays.
Download the Doctor Anywhere app for free on the App Store or Google Play Store to create an account for your child. In the absence of an ID, please use their birth certificate and the "Registry number" as their ID number. To learn more about kid’s health issues and the support services that are available, visit https://www.doctoranywhere.ph/children-health.
Our general practitioners are available 24/7, either on-demand or by appointment. Use *promo code DACONSULT30 to save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a general practitioner.
We also offer a wide range of specialists, including pediatricians and ophthalmologists, available daily by appointment, even on weekends and holidays. Use **promo code DAEXPERTCARE to save ₱30 on your first video consultation with a specialist.
Make the most out of your doctor appointments! Here are a few reminders to keep in mind before your video consultations: https://dranywhr.ph/consultation-reminders
One-time use per account for the first video consultation. Valid for new Doctor Anywhere users who haven’t had a video consultation yet. Promo runs from Jan. 10, 2024 - Dec. 31, 2024. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-182380 Series of 2023. **Promo runs from May 1, 2024 - Apr. 30, 2025. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-192282 Series of 2024.
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