Sports & Eye Safety: What’s Important for Active Kids

Playing sports is a big part of growing up for many children. From team games like soccer and basketball to solo activities like tennis or swimming, sports teach discipline, teamwork, and healthy habits. But one area that often gets overlooked is eye safety. Each year, thousands of kids suffer sports-related eye injuries—many of which are completely preventable.

August is Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, making it the perfect time to shine a light on how parents can keep their young athletes safe on and off the field.

Why Eye Protection Matters in Sports

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, more than 100,000 eye injuries occur each year due to sports, and children are especially vulnerable. These injuries can range from minor scratches to serious trauma like orbital fractures or even permanent vision loss. The good news? Experts estimate that 90% of sports-related eye injuries are preventable with the proper use of protective eyewear.

Whether it’s a fast-moving baseball, an accidental poke during a basketball game, or harmful UV rays from outdoor sports, kids face a number of risks to their vision when playing sports. Taking the right precautions can help ensure that they stay safe while staying active.

Sports That Pose the Biggest Risks

All sports carry some level of risk, but some are more likely to cause eye injuries than others. High-speed ball sports like baseball and softball, contact sports like basketball and hockey, and racquet sports like tennis or squash top the list. Even soccer, which doesn’t involve equipment like bats or rackets, often sees accidental eye injuries from collisions or kicks.

It’s also important not to overlook water sports. Chlorine, debris, and bacteria in pools or lakes can irritate or infect the eyes, especially without goggles. And in outdoor sports like track or cycling, sun exposure and wind can take a toll over time.

Choosing the Right Protective Eyewear

Not all eyewear is created equal. Regular prescription glasses aren’t made to withstand the force or impact of athletic play. Instead, parents should look for sport-specific protective eyewear made with durable polycarbonate lenses. These lenses are shatter-resistant and lightweight, making them ideal for active children.

Eyewear should be snug but comfortable and fit under helmets or other protective gear when needed. For children who need vision correction, prescription sports goggles are a great solution. Many eyewear brands now offer kid-friendly, stylish options designed for both protection and performance.

Building Healthy Habits

Wearing protective eyewear is just one part of a broader effort to keep kids’ eyes healthy. Encouraging safe play and good sportsmanship can reduce the chances of rough contact and injury. For outdoor activities, sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection are key in shielding the eyes from sun damage. And for all athletes, regular eye exams help detect vision problems early—ensuring that kids not only stay safe but also perform at their best.

As a parent, staying involved in your child’s eye health starts with asking the right questions: Does your child squint when tracking a ball? Are they bumping into teammates or struggling with depth perception? These could be signs of uncorrected vision issues that could lead to injuries or affect their performance.

Know the Signs of Eye Injuries

If your child experiences blurry vision, eye pain, light sensitivity, redness, swelling, or bleeding in or around the eye after playing sports, it’s important to get them evaluated by an eye care professional as soon as possible. Early treatment can often prevent more serious complications.

Schedule an Appointment in Hamilton & Princeton

As we recognize Children’s Eye Health and Safety Month, it’s the perfect time to schedule your child’s annual eye exam and evaluate whether their sports gear is offering enough protection. At Campus Eye Group, we offer comprehensive eye exams and can recommend the best protective eyewear for your child’s sports and vision needs.

Let us help your child see clearly and play safely. Schedule their eye exam today through our online form or call our office to book an appointment.

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