3 min read

Hey there, caring parents and guardians! Welcome to August, a month dedicated to celebrating Children's Eye Health and Safety! It's a special time to remind ourselves of just how crucial our children's eye health is for their overall well-being. Today, we'll explore some common eye concerns like myopia in children, discover effective methods like Myopia Control and Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses, and understand why regular eye exams are essential in protecting their precious vision.

Why Eye Health Matters for Our Kids:
Imagine all the wonders our little ones experience through their eyes – the excitement of learning, the joy of playing, and the beauty of the world around them. Good vision is like a superpower for them! However, it's concerning to know that myopia, or nearsightedness, is becoming more common in children. Myopia blurs their view of distant objects and may require glasses or contact lenses. In some places like Singapore, 65 percent of our children being myopic by Primary 6, and 83 percent of young adults being myopic. By 2050, it is projected that 80 to 90 per cent of all Singaporean adults above 18 years old will be myopic and 15 to 25 per cent of these individuals may have high myopia.1 But don't worry, we've got ways to tackle this!

Recognizing Signs of Eye Issues:
Being vigilant about our kids' eye health is essential, and that includes knowing the signs of potential issues. If you notice your little one squinting, rubbing their eyes, or tilting their head to get a better look, it might be time to get their eyes checked. Taking action early can make a huge difference in protecting their eyes.

Myopia Control: A Game-Changer Solution:
For parents worried about myopia, we've got great news! Myopia Control is a fantastic approach to slow down its progression. One exciting method is using MiYOSMART lenses. These special lenses not only correct vision but also have a cool technology that helps reduce the rate of myopia progression in kids. How awesome is that? Investing in Myopia Control can help keep their vision sharp for years to come!

Ortho-K Lenses: The Sleepover Magic!
Another fantastic option for managing myopia is Orthokeratology, or Ortho-K lenses. These magical lenses are worn while sleeping, gently reshaping the cornea to correct vision. Voilà! Your little ones wake up with clear vision without needing glasses or contacts during the day. It's like a sleepover party for their eyes!

Eye Safety: Protect and Play Smart!
We all want our kids to have fun, but eye safety is crucial. Let's make sure they use protective eyewear during sports and other activities. Child-proofing our homes and keeping sharp objects out of reach can also help. We can teach them not to rub their eyes excessively and handle objects with care. And if an accident happens, staying calm, gently flushing the eye, and seeking medical help for serious injuries or persistent pain is a must.

Taking Action: Keep Those Eye Exams in Check!
Okay, here's the secret sauce to safeguarding our kids' eyes – regular comprehensive eye exams! Yup, you heard it right! Qualified Optometrists or Ophthalmologists can spot any early signs of eye issues, like myopia, and suggest the best solutions, like Myopia Control or Ortho-K lenses if needed. Remember, our kids' eyes are continuously developing, so let's give them the best care possible!

Conclusion:
As parents and guardians, we've got the power to ensure our kids' vision stays clear and bright. So, let's make this Children's Eye Health and Safety Month extra special by putting their eye health front and center. Keep an eye out for signs of eye concerns, explore Myopia Control and Ortho-K lenses, and schedule those regular eye exams. Together, we'll keep their eyes sparkling, so they can explore the world with crystal-clear vision and endless possibilities! Remember, with great eye health, their future is looking super bright!