Why August Matters for Children’s Eye Health
As Mississippi families prepare for the new school year, August also serves as Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, a national awareness effort led by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. It’s an ideal time to spotlight the critical role healthy vision plays in a child’s development, academic success, and overall quality of life.
Children may not always realize they have a vision issue—and symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for learning challenges or behavioral problems. That’s why this time of year is perfect for checking in on their eye health, especially before they head back to the classroom.
The Link Between Vision & Learning
Good vision is more than just seeing clearly at a distance. It impacts nearly every facet of how a child learns and interacts with the world—from reading and writing to hand-eye coordination and concentration. When a child struggles to see clearly or comfortably, their academic performance and confidence can suffer.
Unfortunately, some common eye issues in children—like increased nearsightedness (myopia), eye strain from screens, or vision problems caused by developmental conditions—are on the rise. Without early detection and treatment, these can lead to more serious complications down the road. That’s why ophthalmologic care is essential—not just for glasses or vision correction, but for protecting long-term eye health.
Beyond Glasses: How an Ophthalmologist Can Help
While optometrists often conduct routine vision screenings, ophthalmologists are medical doctors trained to detect and treat more complex or sight-threatening eye conditions. At Mississippi Retina Associates, our board-certified specialists care for children facing issues such as retinal disease, eye trauma, or infections. These conditions may not always be obvious—but left untreated, they can cause permanent vision loss.
We work closely with pediatricians, schools, and parents to ensure that children with known risk factors—such as a family history of eye disease, premature birth, or systemic health concerns—receive the advanced care they need from a trusted medical provider.
Preventing Injury & Infection in Active Kids
The return to school also means more time on the playground, participation in sports, and exposure to shared environments where infections like pink eye are more common. According to the National Eye Institute, accidental eye injuries are a leading cause of vision loss in children—and many of these injuries are preventable.
Parents and caregivers can help by promoting the use of protective eyewear during sports and active play, supervising younger children with toys that may pose a hazard, and encouraging regular handwashing to reduce the spread of eye infections.
For additional information on prevention and early detection, visit UNC’s Department of Ophthalmology or the American Academy of Ophthalmology’s public education resources.
Make Vision a Priority This Back-to-School Season
Back-to-school checklists often include school supplies, clothes, and sports physicals—but don’t forget to add your child’s eye health to the list. Whether you’ve been referred by another provider or your child is showing signs of a potential eye condition, Mississippi Retina Associates is here to help.
We provide expert, compassionate care for children with complex eye conditions that require specialized diagnosis and treatment. Your child’s vision is too important to leave to chance—early care from an ophthalmologist can make all the difference.
To schedule a consultation or learn more about our services, call your nearest Mississippi Retina Associates location.
