As a parent, you want your child to be active and enjoy sports and outdoor activities. However, as much as these activities are fun and healthy, they can pose a danger to your child’s eyes. Below, we discuss various ways you can protect your child’s eyes during sports and outdoor activities.
Why Protecting Your Child’s Eyes Is Important
According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, around 90 percent of eye injuries are preventable. Children are more susceptible to eye injuries because they are active and less cautious than adults. Eye injuries can cause permanent damage and, in severe cases, blindness. It’s crucial to protect your child’s eyes during sports and outdoor activities to prevent any long-term damage.
Sports and Outdoor Activities That Pose Eye Injuries Risks
Various sports and outdoor activities pose a risk of eye injuries. The most common ones include:
- Baseball and softball
- Basketball
- Soccer
- Hockey
- Tennis
- Swimming
- Biking
- Skateboarding
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
Proper Equipment to Protect Your Child’s Eyes
Proper equipment is essential to protecting your child’s eyes during sports and outdoor activities. Here are some things to consider:
- Helmets: For biking, skateboarding, skiing, and snowboarding, ensure your child wears a helmet that fits correctly.
- Protective eyewear: For sports such as basketball, soccer, and baseball, consider purchasing protective eyewear for your child.
- Goggles: For swimming, make sure your child wears goggles to prevent chlorine from getting into their eyes.
Tips to Protect Your Child’s Eyes During Sports and Outdoor Activities
Here are some tips to protect your child’s eyes during sports and outdoor activities:
Staying Hydrated
Staying hydrated is essential during any physical activity. Dehydration can lead to dry eyes, which can cause eye irritation.
Taking Breaks
Taking breaks during activities can help reduce eye strain. Encourage your child to take a break every 20 minutes during activities that require a lot of focus.
Avoiding Harmful Chemicals
Exposure to harmful chemicals, such as insect repellent or sunscreen, can cause eye irritation. Teach your child to avoid touching their eyes after applying these products.
Proper Lighting
Make sure the playing area has proper lighting. Poor lighting can cause eye strain and lead to more severe eye injuries.
Proper Training
Proper training is crucial for injury prevention. Ensure your child receives proper training for the activities they participate in.
How to Deal With Eye Injuries
In case of an eye injury, seek medical attention immediately. Do not rub the affected eye as it can cause further damage. Cover the eye with a sterile bandage and seek medical attention.
Protecting your child’s eyes during sports and outdoor activities is crucial to prevent long-term damage. Proper equipment, staying hydrated, taking breaks, avoiding harmful chemicals, proper lighting, and proper training are some of the ways to protect your child’s eyes.