As a parent, you want the best for your child’s health, including their vision. If you wear glasses, you may be wondering if your child will need them too. While genetics can contribute to vision problems, other factors may also play a role. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore how genetics and environmental factors can affect your child’s eye health and what you can do to protect their eyes. 

Understanding the genetic link 

Many vision problems are hereditary, meaning they run in families. If you have a history of nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, your child may be more likely to develop these issues as well.  

However, while genetics may increase the likelihood of your child developing a vision problem, it’s not a guarantee. Your child may have different vision needs than you, and some children have good vision even if their family has a history of vision problems. There are also other factors that can contribute to the development of vision problems, including your child’s environment and hobbies.  

How environmental factors can affect their vision 

Environmental factors can also play a role in the development of vision problems. Spending too much time indoors and on screens has been linked to vision problems, especially in children. As a parent, you may have noticed that your child loves playing video games, watching movies, and scrolling through social media. These activities can cause eye strain and lead to myopia or other vision issues over time. Encouraging healthy habits such as spending time outdoors and limiting screen time can help protect their eyes. 

The importance of regular eye exams 

Whatever your child’s vision needs are, it’s important to schedule regular eye exams. Eye doctors can catch vision problems early and recommend the best treatment to avoid future complications. This is especially important for children who may not realize they have vision problems and may struggle in school as a result.  

Children should have their first pediatric eye exam at around six months of age, with follow-up exams at age three and again before starting kindergarten. After that, they should see an eye doctor at least once a year if they need glasses or contact lenses. 

At Ascension Optical in Gonzales, LA, we specialize in pediatric eye care and offer a wide range of children’s eyewear in fun designs to fit your child’s needs. Schedule an appointment today and let us help you keep your child’s eyes healthy and safe!