August is Children's Eye Health and Safety Month, a national observance calling attention to how vital healthy vision is for a child's development, learning, and well-being. As kids head back to school and reconnect with friends, this is a great time for families to take proactive steps in protecting young eyes and building lifelong habits.
Every August, the National Eye Institute (NEI)—part of the National Institutes of Health—calls on parents, caregivers, and educators to prioritize vision health through early detection, screenings, and eye safety. Their resources are especially helpful for families seeking kid-friendly tools and information on vision development.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recognizes this month too, spotlighting NEI's resources and encouraging families to explore MyHealthfinder for guidance on the importance of routine vision checks.
Why It Matters for Families Now
Getting your child's vision assessed, even before symptoms appear, makes a real difference. If vision problems go unnoticed, they can impact learning, behavior, and social engagement. According to NEI and other federal sources, early screenings are crucial in detecting common concerns like myopia (nearsightedness), amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes).
School clinics and pediatric offices typically see a surge in vision screenings at the start of the school year—another sign that timely care supports academic success.
Assessing your child's eye health
• Schedule a vision screening or comprehensive eye exam, either through your pediatrician or an optometrist/ophthalmologist. If your child hasn't had one recently, now's the time.
• Encourage protective eyewear to prevent injuries during sports and science projects.
• Talk openly with your kids about eye health. Use NEI's "All About Vision" tools and fun educational materials to keep them engaged.
To help your family get started, explore these excellent free resources from the National Eye Institute and MyHealthfinder:
• NEI's kid-friendly tools & vision education: "All About Vision" materials and fun activities
• MyHealthfinder's guide to getting your child's vision checked
This August, please consider taking one small step that can make a big difference: an eye exam, a conversation about safety, or a closer look at how your child uses screens. Children's vision is worth protecting, today and always.
Healthy eyes are a gift that lasts a lifetime, so let's work together to help every child see their brightest future.
