Opticians in Runcorn are encouraging parents to book eye tests for their children over the February half term, highlighting the importance of early detection and treatment for a range of common eye conditions.
Experts say regular eye exams can identify issues such as short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia), lazy eye, childhood cataracts, and colour blindness – many of which may go unnoticed by children themselves.
Mullens Opticians, an independent practice in River Walk, Shopping City, is among those urging parents to make use of the school break to schedule eye appointments for their children, even if they aren’t showing symptoms.
Clare Yates, practice manager at Mullens Opticians, said: “We can’t stress enough how vital it is that children have regular eye exams.
“Many children will not be aware they have problems with their vision, so it may go undetected, meaning that valuable time to treat and support them is lost.
“In addition, vision issues can impact children’s development and learning.”
She added: “Our warm, welcoming approach helps to reassure children who may be feeling anxious about their first eye exam, so they’re happy to return.”
The reminder comes after a recent report from the Association of British Dispensing Opticians, The College of Optometrists, and the Optical Suppliers’ Association, which found that nearly one in 10 parents or carers only take their child for their first visit to the optician if and when an eye health or vision issue arises.
The report also revealed that many parents are unsure where to seek help if their child is experiencing eye or vision issues.
In addition to scheduling eye exams, families are encouraged to spend more time outdoors during the school break, as research shows this can reduce the risk of children developing myopia.
Melany Brunka, dispensing optician at Morgan Opticians in Alcock Street, said: “Families can help support the health of their children’s eyesight by encouraging regular screen breaks and heading outdoors this half term.”
She explained that increased screen time has been linked to higher rates of myopia, with one study suggesting that an additional hour of daily screen time is, on average, linked to 21% higher odds of having myopia.
Appointments with independent opticians can be booked online at www.bookaneyetest.co.uk.
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