Zenni’s Guide to Eye Health for Kids: Tips for Keeping Your Eyes Happy and Healthy

Child wearing a white sun hat and floral dress picking flowers in a sunny meadow.

Photo by Jill Wellington

Welcome, young adventurers, to Zenni’s Guide to Eye Health! Your eyes are incredible tools that help you explore the world around you, so it’s essential to take good care of them. At Zenni, we believe that clear vision is key to unlocking endless adventures and discovering new wonders. That’s why we’re not just about providing stylish and affordable glasses; we’re also passionate about promoting eye health and helping you make the most of your visual experience. In this guide, we’ll share some fun and easy tips to keep your eyes happy and healthy, so you can continue to embark on exciting journeys with crystal-clear clarity.

Take Breaks from Screens

We know how much fun video games and cartoons can be, but spending too much time in front of screens can strain your eyes. Remember to take regular breaks to give your eyes a rest. The 20-20-20 rule is an excellent guideline: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break, and look at something 20 feet away.

Two children wearing eyeglasses; one child wears a "LOVE" sweatshirt.

Eat Your Way to Healthy Eyes

Did you know that what you eat can affect your eye health? It’s true! Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids, can help keep your eyes in top shape. Snack on carrots, oranges, nuts, and fish to give your peepers the nutrients they need.

Get Plenty of Sleep

Sleep is crucial for overall health, including eye health. When you’re asleep, your eyes get a chance to rest and recharge. Make sure to get plenty of shut-eye each night, aiming for 9 to 11 hours for school-age children.

Protect Your Eyes from the Sun

Just like you wear sunscreen to protect your skin, you should also protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful rays. Wear sunglasses with UV protection whenever you’re outside, especially on bright, sunny days. Bonus points if you choose a stylish pair of Zenni sunglasses!

Child wearing teal sunglasses and a blue shirt, pointing one finger at each side of the sunglasses.

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Keep Your Eyes Clean

Good hygiene is essential for keeping your eyes healthy. Remember to wash your hands before touching your eyes, and avoid rubbing them if they feel itchy or irritated. If you wear glasses, clean them regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap to remove dirt and oil.

Have Regular Eye Exams

Even if you think your eyes are fine, it’s essential to have them checked regularly by an eye doctor. They can spot any issues early on and make sure your eyes are growing and developing as they should. Plus, you’ll get to try on all sorts of cool frames at the optometrist’s office!

Your eyes are precious, so make sure to take good care of them! By following these simple tips, you can help keep your eyes happy and healthy for years to come. And remember, if you ever need a new pair of glasses to see the world more clearly, Zenni has got you covered!

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Photograph of Alyssa Buchanan

Alyssa Buchanan

Dr. Alyssa Buchanan is an optometrist based in Lubbock, Texas. She received her doctorate from Western University of Health Sciences in Pomona, California, and has practiced in various settings including Fort Cavazos where she provided eye care for deploying soldiers. Dr. Buchanan has since received her Master’s degree in Healthcare Administration and continues to strive to provide top-notch eyecare and make a meaningful impact in the eyecare industry.