Prepare Your Child for School with Healthy Eyes: 2025 Back-to-School Eye Health Tips for Southeast Wisconsin Families
August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, and with the new school year approaching, it’s the perfect time to check in on your child’s vision. Healthy eyes are critical for learning, whether it’s reading books, using digital devices, or seeing the whiteboard clearly in class. At Pillar Health and Kenosha Community Health Center, we want to help your child start the year with clear vision and confidence.
Why Eye Health Matters for Learning
Up to 80% of classroom learning is visual. If a child has undiagnosed vision problems, it can impact their ability to focus, read, or perform well in school. According to Prevent Blindness, one in four school-aged children in the United States has a vision disorder. Early detection and treatment are key.
6 Eye Health Tips to Prepare for the School Year
1. Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam
A vision screening at a pediatric check-up is a good first step, but a full eye exam with an eye care professional can detect conditions like myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and eye coordination problems. The American Optometric Association recommends children get their first comprehensive eye exam at age 1, again before first grade, and regularly thereafter.
2. Watch for Signs of Vision Problems
Keep an eye out for squinting, frequent headaches, eye rubbing, sitting too close to the TV, or holding books very close. These may be signs that your child is struggling to see clearly.
3. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
As screen time continues to rise among children, so does the risk of digital eye strain. The 20-20-20 rule can help: every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
4. Use Proper Eye Protection in Sports
More than 30,000 sports-related eye injuries are treated in the U.S. each year. If your child plays baseball, basketball, racquet sports, or other contact sports, make sure they wear safety-rated protective eyewear.
5. Choose Sunglasses that Block UV Rays
Just like skin, eyes are vulnerable to UV damage. Make sure your child wears sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays, especially during outdoor activities.
6. Eat Eye-Friendly Foods
A diet rich in vitamin A, C, E, and omega-3 fatty acids supports healthy vision. Encourage kids to eat colorful fruits and vegetables, leafy greens, and fish like salmon and tuna.
Pillar Health and KCHC Are Here to Help
En Pilar Health y Centro de Salud Comunitaria de Kenosha, we include vision screenings as part of your child’s routine well-child visits. When needed, we offer referrals to local vision specialists to ensure your child receives the right care.
In 2024, our team provided over 52,000 visits to more than 15,000 patients across Southeast Wisconsin. We’re proud to support families with high-quality, affordable, and accessible care.
Book a Visit Today
Localidades en Kenosha:
KCHC - Clínica de la Avenida 14
6226 14th Ave., Kenosha
(262) 771-1688
KCHC - Clínica de la Avenida 22
4536 Avenida 22, Kenosha
(262) 771-0070
Pillar Health - Clínica de Kenosha
4006 Washington Rd., Kenosha
(262) 771-1700
Ubicación en Silver Lake:
KCHC - Clínica Silver Lake
903 S. 2nd Street, Silver Lake
(262) 771-1963
Racine Ubicación:
Pillar Health - Clínica de Racine
Escuela Julian Thomas
930 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Dr., Puerta #3, Racine
(262) 771-0035
Helpful Resources for Families
Sports Eye Safety Tips
- Always wear sport-specific protective eyewear made from polycarbonate
- Ensure eyewear fits well and doesn’t shift during play
- Understand high-risk sports like baseball, basketball, and racquetball
- Include protective gear discussions during routine eye exams
- Model good habits by using eye protection during activities
Let’s give every child the clear vision they need to succeed in school and life. Start the school year right with healthy eyes and a strong foundation for learning. Visit pillarhealthcare.org to learn more or schedule your appointment.
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