As a new school year approaches, it’s not just school supplies and schedules that matter—your child’s eye health is key to their classroom success.
At Morgantown Eye, we want every family in our community to start the school year seeing clearly and confidently. Here are our top back-to-school eye health tips for parents:
Recognize Signs of Vision Problems
Kids don’t always realize when they’re not seeing well. Be alert for these signs:
- Sitting too close to the TV or always needing to be at the front of the class
- Squinting, frequent eye rubbing, or complaints of headaches
- Difficulty focusing on reading, homework, or schoolwork
Spotting these early can help you take action before vision issues affect their learning.
Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Children should have a comprehensive eye exam at least once a year, or more often if they already wear glasses or have other concerns.
- Babies can have their first eye exam as early as 6 months old
- Annual exams catch problems that simple school screenings may miss
Tip: Schedule your child’s exam before school starts to avoid delays if a new prescription is needed.
Limit Screen Time & Prevent Eye Strain
Digital learning and play are part of childhood—but too much screen time can cause digital eye strain and contribute to nearsightedness (myopia).
- Practice the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Encourage regular breaks and balance screens with outdoor play.
Make Time for Outdoor Activities
Spending time outside helps reduce the risk of myopia progression. Aim for at least one hour of outdoor play each day. Sports, family walks, and backyard play all count!
Know Your Family’s Eye Health History
Eye problems often run in families. If you or close relatives have nearsightedness, lazy eye, or astigmatism, be extra proactive. Early detection makes a big difference.
Be Ready for New Glasses
If your child needs a new prescription, order their glasses early—it can take a couple of weeks for lenses to arrive. Make sure they’re equipped for the first day of school.
Teach Eye Safety for Sports
Sports are great for kids, but eye safety matters too. Invest in protective eyewear or sports goggles to help prevent injuries and protect their vision long-term.
FAQs
- How often should my child have an eye exam?
- Every year! And babies can start at 6 months old.
- How can I help my child avoid eye strain from screens?
- Use the 20-20-20 rule, encourage frequent breaks, and get plenty of outdoor playtime.
- Why is outdoor time so important for my child’s eyes?
- Research shows outdoor time can help slow down nearsightedness and keep eyes healthy.
Ready for a Back-to-School Eye Exam in Morgantown?
At Morgantown Eye, we’re dedicated to your family’s vision and success. If you have any concerns about your child’s eyesight or want to schedule a back-to-school eye exam, contact us today at 304-598-2020 or schedule online.