The holiday season is here, and with it comes time off from school, extra screen time, and new routines for the whole family. While it’s great for kids to relax and enjoy the break, it’s also important to keep an eye on their vision health. As screen use and holiday treats increase, so does the risk of eye strain and vision problems.
The good news? You can use the holiday break to establish healthy habits for your child’s eyes. Here’s how to protect your child’s vision this winter with a little help from Vision Care Direct.
Limit Screen Time to Prevent Eye Strain
During the holiday break, kids often spend more time on screens—whether they’re playing video games, watching movies, or scrolling through tablets. Unfortunately, increased screen time can lead to digital eye strain. Symptoms include headaches, dry eyes, and trouble focusing.
The best way to reduce eye strain is to encourage your child to take regular breaks. Use the “20-20-20 Rule.” Every 20 minutes, have them look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit helps relax their eye muscles and reduces strain.
If your child still complains about eye discomfort, it might be time for an eye exam. Vision Care Direct members can use their plan benefits to schedule a check-up and make sure your child’s prescription is up to date.
Encourage Outdoor Play for Healthier Eyes
Spending time outdoors isn’t just good for physical health—it’s great for eye health, too. Studies show that kids who spend more time outside have a lower risk of developing nearsightedness (myopia). The natural light and opportunity to look at distant objects help their eyes relax and refocus.
Even in winter, you can find fun ways to get your kids outside. Try sledding, building a snowman, or going on a winter walk together. Outdoor play gives their eyes a break from screens and helps prevent vision problems.
With Vision Care Direct, you can feel confident knowing that your plan covers comprehensive eye exams to monitor changes in your child’s vision as they grow.
Maintain a Healthy Diet for Strong Vision
Holiday treats are everywhere this time of year, but it’s important to balance sugary snacks with foods that support eye health. Nutrient-rich foods can make a big difference in your child’s vision.
Include foods high in vitamins A, C, and E, as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Carrots, oranges, leafy greens, and fish are all excellent choices. These nutrients help reduce inflammation, support tear production, and protect the eyes from damage.
If you have questions about the best foods for eye health, your Vision Care Direct plan includes access to eye exams where your optometrist can offer personalized advice.
Protect Kids’ Eyes from UV Rays, Even in Winter
It’s easy to forget about UV protection during winter, but snow can reflect up to 80% of UV rays. This means kids are at risk of eye damage, even on cloudy days. Prolonged exposure can lead to conditions like photokeratitis (sunburn of the eye).
Make sure your child wears sunglasses with 100% UV protection whenever they’re outdoors. Wraparound styles offer extra coverage, which is especially helpful if they’re skiing or snowboarding.
With Vision Care Direct’s vision benefits, you can save on high-quality sunglasses that fit your child properly and keep their eyes protected all year long.
Schedule an Eye Exam Before School Starts
The holiday break is a perfect time to use your vision benefits for an annual eye exam. Kids may not always notice when they have vision problems, and regular check-ups are key to catching issues early. Look out for signs like squinting, holding devices too close, or frequent headaches.
An eye exam can help ensure your child’s vision is clear and healthy before they head back to school. Vision Care Direct members have access to routine exams, making it easy to keep up with your child’s eye care.
Keep Your Child’s Eyes Healthy All Year Long
Taking care of your child’s vision during the holiday break sets them up for success in the new year. Encourage outdoor play, limit screen time, and include eye-healthy foods in their diet. Don’t forget to take advantage of your Vision Care Direct benefits for comprehensive eye exams and savings on eyewear.
By following these simple tips, you can help protect your child’s vision and keep their eyes healthy through the holiday season and beyond.
Check your benefits today and make sure you’re using all the resources available to support your child’s eye health. Not a member yet? Explore our vision benefit plans and find the right fit for your family.