Health Directory 2012

Here's
to Your
Health!

quicklinks: Health & Wellness | Dental Health | Hospitals | Fitness | Safety

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Arch Health Partners
Poway, 858-675-3100
Ramona, 760-789-5160
San Marcos, 760-798-0088
www.ArchHealth.org
Whether you are in need of an annual physical exam or have more complex needs, we want to make sure the health care you want is the Arch Health Partners (AHP) understands that establishing a strong relationship with a primary care physician is important. With more than 50 experienced primary and specialty-care physicians, we make taking care of your health easy. Conveniently located in Poway, Ramona and San Marcos, AHP provides quality, individualized care for you and your family. Plus, AHP has been named a Top Performing Medical Group for its achievement in quality measures and use of technology by the Integrated Healthcare Association for two consecutive years.

Babies First Ultrasound    
Miramar, 858-549-7666       
www.bfiultrasound.com
See an incredible 4D moving image of your unborn baby, instantly. We use a state-of-the-art GE 3D/4D system that allows you to see your baby like never before. Our ultrasounds are reviewed by a board-certified radiologist. We offer video tapes, DVDs, pictures, digital pictures on CD-ROM and gender determination. This is truly a once in a lifetime experience, and it is sure to be one of the most memorable parts of your pregnancy.

Baby Frenzy
El Cajon, 619-258-6867
www.babyfrenzy.com
Baby Frenzy is your source for healthy, natural parenting products and modern reusable diapers. Our full lineup of natural parenting products includes breastfeeding supplies, cloth diapers, natural cream and ointments for healthy skin care, soft soled shoes, organic baby clothing and toys as well as many other products you and your baby will love. FREE monthly parenting classes include: Breastfeeding Support by Donna Hooyen LM, CPM every 4th Thursday; How To Raise a Healthy Child with Dr. Lora every 3rd Thursday; Birth Choices and Alternatives by Donna Hooyen LM, CPM every 2nd Thursday.

Center for Thoughtful Lasting Change
Miramar & Chula Vista, 619-807-7410
www.drsherrycasper.com
We have helped many parents achieve successful outcomes with direct interventions and consultations for infants to adolescents in: behavioral difficulties, school problems, bonding, sleeping, eating, colic; Understanding child development, developing healthy parent/child relationships, adoption, foster care issues, trauma, neglect impact, conflict between caregivers or family members; Autism: ABA, relationship-based & social-skills therapies. Call today to learn about behavior management, assessments, treatment, educational interventions, IEPs and more.

Children’s Physicians Medical Group
877-276-4543
www.CPMGSanDiego.com/sdfm
Children’s Physicians Medical Group (CPMG) focuses solely on pediatric healthcare, and we would like to offer our physicians’ expertise to you and your child. Be a part of San Diego’s largest pediatric medical group! With physician offices located throughout San Diego & southern Riverside counties, CPMG has a pediatrician located near you. When selecting a medical group from your child’s HMO plan, simply ask for a Children’s Physicians Medical Group doctor. Visit our site and our new pediatric health blog today for more details!

County of San Diego HHSA
www.Up2SD.org
The “It’s Up to Us” campaign is designed to empower San Diegans to talk openly about mental illness, recognize symptoms, utilize local resources and seek help. By raising awareness and providing access to local resources, the campaign aims to inspire wellness, reduce stigma and prevent suicide. It’s up to us to make a difference in the lives of San Diegans experiencing mental health challenges by offering support and providing opportunities. Visit our website for information and mental health resources.

Greater Life Family Chiropractic
Point Loma, 619-333-8782
www.GreaterLifeChiro.com
Did you know that kids need chiropractic, too? Kids fall all the time, bump their heads, have sports injuries and carry heavy backpacks that can cause their spines to misalign. Dr. Henry Wong specializes in gentle techniques to correct small alignment problems from an early age so that kids can avoid bigger problems in the future. We take care of adults, too!  We offer free consultations and scoliosis screenings and have a warm, friendly atmosphere to make sure you feel right at home. Give us a call to find out how we can help you and your family!

Stuart B. Kincaid, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
La Jolla, 858-450-4199
Temecula, 951-695-9934
www.SkincaidMD.com
As a nationally respected surgeon with over 25 years experience in plastic surgery, I am committed to delivering exceptional cosmetic plastic surgery with natural results in a safe, accredited surgery center and to exceed the expectations of my patients whenever possible. This surgery is offered at affordable prices with payment options that will accommodate most budgets. My staff and I welcome an ongoing relationship in helping you attain your lifelong BEST IMAGE!

Lifetime Women’s Healthcare
Chula Vista, Mission Valley
619-482-8406
www.LifetimeWomensHealthcare.net
Schubert Atiga, M.D., F.A.C.O.G; Ray Kamali, M.D., F.A.C.O.G. We care about you and Board Certified Physicians are here to help! While it may be tempting to delay your annual exam or to procrastinate getting medical care; seeking the healthcare you need, sooner rather than later, makes good sense, economically and otherwise. Take care of yourself and please call on us if we can be of service to you.

SDSU ChAAMP (Child & Adolescent Anxiety & Mood Program)
619-594-8898
Do you or your child often worry, feel nervous or scared, or feel extremely shy? We are seeking mothers and/or youths (ages 8-17) who experience significant anxiety to participate in a study at the SDSU Child & Adolescent Anxiety & Mood Program about how anxiety affects youths and families. Participants receive a free evaluation and eligible youths may have the option of free computerized treatment for anxiety. Please call for more information.

Steven E. Meineke, M.A., M. Div.
Solana Beach, 858-755-3519
www.centerformarriage.com
I help couples build equal, intimate and enduring relationships that bring health, joy and meaning to their lives. For over 30 years I have provided a safe, supportive place where couples can express their dreams and disappointments while developing the attitude and skills necessary to work together toward a better future.

Total Education Solutions
Mission Valley, (888) 4TES-KIDS
www.tesidea.com
TES is committed to providing quality services for children with special needs. In order to fulfill these needs, our dynamic team of special education providers expands and enriches the quality and breadth of services through a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach. In addition to school-based services, TES offers one-on-one and small group sessions in speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and physical therapy in a clinic setting to ensure the success of every student.

Dr. Henry Wong, D.C.
San Diego, 619-333-8782
Safe and easy weight loss management system is proven to help you lose weight. Lose 1-2 pounds of FAT per day, naturally. Dr. Wong is here for you every step of the way and will explain this safe and effective method that all of San Diego County is talking about. Call today for all the details!

XDI Ultrasound
University Heights, 619-546-8005
www.xdiultrasound.com
Leave your sonogram to the pros. XDI is one of the first facilities in San Diego providing 4D. Our experience and imaging techniques ensure the clearest 4D images as well as gender at 15 weeks! Unlike other 4D studios, XDI is a medical ultrasound facility and can provide your doctor with information regarding your pregnancy as well as perform early pregnancy, anatomy screening sonograms and can accept most major insurances for doctor ordered sonograms.

DENTAL HEALTH

ABC Children’s Dentistry
Rancho Peñasquitos
858-780-9794
www.abcchildrensdentistry.com
Dentistry for infants, children and adolescents. We offer conscious sedation with rigorous monitoring, in-office deep sedation by an anesthesiologist, nitrous oxide (laughing gas), movies and games for the kids.

Carlsbad Children’s Dentistry
Carlsbad, 760-633-1131
www.sunnysmilez.com
Our focus is on the prevention of tooth decay! We make your child’s visit as relaxed and comfortable as possible. We believe that taking care of a child’s oral health is a family affair and invite parents to accompany their children in our examination and treatment areas. In addition to providing care in our office, we are also credentialed to provide care at Rady Children’s Hospital and Kaiser Hospital. We make dentistry a walk in the park.

CarlsbaDDS Pediatric Smiles
Carlsbad, 760-730-3456
www.cddsps.com
CarlsbaDDS Pediatric Smiles is committed to improving your child’s dental health. We strongly believe that the success in dental care for your child is a team effort involving the parent’s input about their child’s treatment options. Parents are invited to follow their child and observe all appointments. It is our primary goal to provide optimal dental care in a gentle and caring manner that will offer a positive dental experience for your child.

Jean Chan, DDS
El Cajon, 619-579-2363
www.healthygrins.com
We are a full service dental home for your child/adolescent, serving San Diego for 29 years. Our mission is to provide the highest quality of dental care in a safe, comfortable, and caring environment with an experience that rises above expectation. We offer nitrous oxide, general anesthesia and orthodontics. Our child-friendly office has a multi-lingual, experienced staff, and televisions. We also offer free field trips/orientations. We love what we do and would be happy to share our expertise with your family.

Clairemont Pediatric Dental
Clairemont, 858-650-0838
www.clairemontpediatricdental.com
The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends the first dental visit at 1 year old. Our philosophy is to treat the patient as a whole rather than merely treating teeth. During your child’s visit we’ll discuss the importance of early oral care to help with “malocclusion” or crooked teeth, bite problems, even prevent the need for tooth extractions. We can discuss prevention of “baby bottle tooth decay” to protect your child, and help you help your child break a thumb-sucking habit before permanent teeth come in. Early oral care can enhance your child’s smile, but the benefits far surpass appearance. Your child will be healthier and happier, with a great smile to show for it!

Discovery Children’s Dentistry
Carlsbad, 760-438-1279
www.CaptainFloss.com
Pediatric dentists are the pediatricians of dentistry. We have worked exceptionally hard to provide a dental home for your children. Beyond traveling the world in our themed office, there are qualifications that separates us from others. All our pediatric dentists are board certified and are Diplomates of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. With more than twenty years of combined experience, we provide a dental home that includes total dental care including prevention, treatments and orthodontia.

Dixon Pediatric Dental Group
Sorrento Valley, 858-452-7272
www.DrKid.com
Some facts about children’s teeth you may not know: 1) The American Association of Pediatric Dentistry policy is for a child to have their first dental check-up by age one; 2) Diluted juice can pose a risk of tooth decay when there is prolonged or frequent exposure to sugar on the teeth. The most common cause of cavities at 2 years old is continued use of a juice bottle; 3) “Weak teeth” are extremely rare. Most children with decay need improvements in oral hygiene and diet.

Derek Hyun, DDS
Poway, 858-679-2838
Start your family off right this year! Go to the dentist. Dental care is an important part of a person’s overall health. Our office provides friendly, gentle and caring dental care. We have special packages for new patient exams, cleanings and teeth whitening. Give us a call and we’ll help make your smile more beautiful. Happy New Year!

Poiset & Associates Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics
Serra Mesa/Kearny Mesa, 858-492-9977
We have moved to a new beautiful location across from Rady Children’s Hospital. Doctors Mitchell Poiset, Tracy Hagan, Shay Brannan and Jodi McGrady provide comprehensive, high-quality care starting from a child’s first dental visit. With the latest technology, including digital x-rays and TVs in each treatment room, Poiset & Associates provides a warm, relaxed and fun environment. Founder of the practice, Dr. Poiset was voted “Best Dentist” in the UT “Best of” awards for 2011.

Roncone Orthodontics
Vista, 760-758-0630
www.ronconeorthodontics.com
Dr. Ron Roncone and team have been at the forefront of orthodontic treatment for many years. They have been the leading orthodontic practice in lingual (small braces on the inside of teeth) for 30 years. Additionally, Dr. Roncone practices esthetic orthodontics almost exclusively-clear ceramic braces being used routinely. Orthodontics for ages 7–70, now at significantly lower costs to patients.

Anthony J. Scoma, DDS
La Jolla, 858-551-9700
www.scomapediatricdentistry.com
Dr. Scoma is a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. He feels strongly that every parent needs to be actively involved in the care of their child’s dental development, and therefore encourages each parent to be with the child for all well-visits, periodic examinations and treatment appointments. Dr. Scoma strives to deliver pediatric dental care in a gentle, non-threatening, fun environment that promotes excellent dental health and happy young patients.

The Super Dentists Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics
760- or 619-DENTIST (336-8478)
www.thesuperdentists.com
The Super Dentists specialize in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics for all ages in North and South County. The professional team is super because they deliver attentive and compassionate care while providing you and your children with peace-of-mind. Kids love the iPads and Wii they have a chance to receive as rewards for good dental care. The Super Dentists offer a wide range of state-of-the-art tools such as digital x-rays that reduce radiation exposure; self-adjusting, “invisible,” or clear removable braces; and laser dentistry for faster healing times and the reduction of cavities.

HOSPITALS

Paradise Valley Hospital
National City, 619-470-4321
www.ParadiseValleyHospital.org
Paradise Valley Hospital’s Life Family Center is equipped to give your new family a healthy start with advanced services and technology, along with the proper education and social services that all new families need when they enter this phase in life. Our mission is to make your birthing experience as pleasant and comfortable as possible. Please call with any questions you have. We’d be glad to hear from you.

FITNESS

Aqua Pros Swim School
Clairemont, 619-209-2990
www.aquapros.org
With over 32 years of experience, Aqua Pros Swim School offers a year-round learn-to-swim program for all ages infants-adults, in our warm 92º indoor swimming pool. We provide small group and private swim lessons. We always offer a FREE introductory swim lesson - call to schedule yours today. SAVE A LIFE, LEARN TO SWIM.

Aquasafe Swimming
Carmel Valley & Chula Vista, 619-531-8888
www.AquaSafeSwimming.com
Whether teaching water safety, basic swim skills or advanced technique, our instructors will make sure your child’s swimming session is as productive as possible!

Bubbles Swim School
Spring Valley, 619-660-0128
www.bubblesswimschool.com
Bubbles Swim School has been family owned and operated since 1976, featuring a soft touch method and focusing on child safety. With nearly 40 years of combined experience, our classes produce results. Swimming lessons are an investment in your child’s safety, it is the one sport that has the potential to one day save your child’s life. Early positive exposure to a water environment, along with qualified swimming instruction will prepare your child for a lifetime of aquatic fun. Bubbles is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of instruction and safety. Introduce your children to the exciting world of aquatics, it’s never too late!

California Ballet School
Kearny Mesa, 858-560-5676
Pacific Beach, 858-483-8554
La Mesa, 619-667-1300
www.californiaballetschool.com
In addition to training in classical ballet, California Ballet offers a diverse curriculum that includes jazz, tap, body mechanics, Spanish dancing, dance related workshops and pilates. Classes for very young children emphasize rhythm, movement and creative expression. The adult program is designed for those who wish to enjoy the physical and aesthetic benefits of dance in a more relaxed atmosphere. Ballet is a perfect complement to other forms of exercise - improving coordination, muscle tone and flexibility.

Center Stage School of Dance
El Cajon, 619-401-7700
www.CenterStageSchoolofDance.com

Danceology Performing Arts Campus
4S Ranch, 858-613-1155
www.Danceology.biz
With six dance rooms and 8,000 square feet, it is no wonder Danceology Performing Arts Campus churns out stars each year. A studio that fosters education through dance, in 2011 Danceology students took home numerous awards from nationally recognized dance competitions. Whether you are looking to get your child in competitive dance or recreational dance, Danceology prides itself on staying committed to community, family, health and wellness through the art of dance.

Elite Gymnastics Academy
El Cajon, 619-441-5900
www.EliteGymnastics.com
Our 19,400 sq ft state-of-the-art gym is designed for the most complete gymnastics training anywhere in San Diego. We focus on what the children are learning, as well as their learning habits. The lessons learned at Elite go far beyond the gym: everything from the importance of exercise, to healthy eating habits, to knowing the journey of obtaining new skills is just as satisfying as the final product!

Floaties Swim School
1-877-277-SWIM (7946)
www.floatiesswimschool.com
Swimming isn’t just a summer sport. Waterproof your kids year round in our indoor, heated, saltwater pool located minutes from the 56 and 15 freeways. Small class sizes and highly trained instructors. Swimming is not mastered in six weeks or less. Learning to swim is a lifelong skill. Teaching children to be safe and have fun in and around water is our number one priority. We encourage building self-esteem and confidence starting as early as 3 months old.

FUNBelievable Play
Lakeside, 619-456-2474
www.funbelievableplay.com

Girls on the Run San Diego
619-813-9020
www.gotrsd.org
Girls on the Run is an after-school running and development program for girls 8–12 years old. It combines an interactive curriculum and running to inspire self-respect and healthy lifestyles in pre-teen girls. Our core curriculum addresses many aspects of girls’ development - their physical, emotional, mental and social well-being. Our 12-week program meets twice a week for 75 minutes at 24 sites in San Diego County. Registration begins Jan. 2. The spring session starts Feb. 27. Register now.

Little Rascalz Soccer
619-309-9626
www.littlerascalzsoccer.com
Year round, non-competitive soccer classes for kids ages 2 1/2-5 1/2. 100% money-back guarantee. Locations throughout San Diego County and Coronado. Highly experienced coaches. Great exercise and social interaction for the kids. Just fun with a side of fun!!

Martial Arts Professional Schools
Countywide, 619-265-2021
www.martialartsprofessionalschools.com
Do you want your child to be aware of his surroundings, feel confident and learn self-defense? Would you like your child to have improved concentration or get better grades in school? We teach life skills to help your child be focused and responsible, to defend themselves, be healthy and physically fit. Isn’t that what it’s all about? Teaching ages 3 and up. Call to find a location near you.

Mega Arte Riding Academy
San Elijo Hills, 760-822-4778
www.ridingacademy.biz
Mega Arte Riding Academy is set in a horse-lovers paradise in Elfin Forest (San Diego). Enjoy your new year of health and fitness taking riding lessons. It’s an experience you will never forget. We specialize in Certified English Dressage and offer Hunter/Jumper, Cross-Country and Endurance Trail Riding.  Ages 3 to adult. Call today.

Murray Callan Swim Schools
Pacific Beach, 858-273-7946
San Marcos, 760-744-7946
www.murraycallanswimschools.com
Learn to swim from the best. One-on-one instruction, all levels beginning through advanced, ages 3 months to adult, medically approved infant program, soft, patient techniques. Indoors in winter, outdoors in summer.

Next Generation Educational Center
El Cajon, 619-441-8800
www.nextgenerationec.com
Next Generation Educational Center is committed to your child’s health, fitness and safety. That’s why we have created programs to help your child stay healthy. Our Movin’ & Groovin’, Nutrition and Movement and Motion class help your child practice the skills that lead to a happy and healthy lifestyle…all while having fun! Visit us at www.nextgenerationec.com/activities or call for more information.

Noonan Family Swim School
Countywide, 858-451-0794
www.noonanfamilyswimschool.com
Learning to swim correctly is considered a long-term skill. Taking lessons a few times a week during the summer is not enough to maximize all the benefits swimming has to offer. Most of our clients take lessons year-round to experience the consistent learning and mastering of the sport. Being exposed to the water on a consistent basis introduces swimming not only as a recreation, but a healthy lifestyle that can be enjoyed for life.

North County Gymnastics & Gyminny Kids
4S Ranch, 1-800-GYMINNY
www.GyminnyKids.com
Family owned and operated since 1987, North County Gymnastics & the Gyminny Kids serve students from 15 months through adult with gymnastics, acro, cheer classes, demo teams, birthday parties, camps, parent’s nite out, and Motion Evolution. We also carry a huge inventory of active wear and dance shoes in Gyminny’s Gifts & Gear retail shop.

Play Town Indoor Playground
El Cajon, 619-447-7529
www.goplaytown.com
Keep your kids fit! Play Town is East County’s premiere indoor playground. We are a safe, clean, and stimulating facility perfect for children 0-6yrs. We have a bouncer, tube and slide structure, kiddy roller coasters, train table, an air hockey table and much more for fitness fun. We offer open play, semi-private & private parties and a variety of classes. We allow outside food and beverage and also have them to purchase. Free WiFi.

Poway Gymnastics
Poway, 858-748-1716
www.powaygymnastics.com
Poway Gymnastics is a dedicated safe learning environment for boys and girls of all levels. We feel gymnastics is the basis of all sports. Gymnastics instills self-confidence, discipline, strength, flexibility, body awareness and will help a child later in life in whatever they choose.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center
College Area, 619-269-1460
www.kroccenter.org
The Salvation Army Kroc Center offers fun fitness programs for people of all ages! With three swimming pools, a fitness center, gymnasium, rock wall, and amazing personal trainers, the Kroc Center is the perfect place to get fit and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Unlike many other gyms, the Kroc Center is a true community. Membership and program dues help the center provide life-changing programs.

San Diego Ice Arena
Mira Mesa, 858-530-1825
www.sdice.com
Start your year on the “right foot” by combining fitness and FUN at the coolest place in town! We offer year-round skating lessons and ice hockey leagues for youth and adults. We also have the Best Ice Skating Parties in town and public skating sessions, including Family Party and Teen Meltdown. See you on the ice!

Victory Gymnastics Academy
Kearny Mesa, 858-650-3547
www.VictoryGymnasticsAcademy.com
Victory Gymnastics Academy is a full-service gymnastics training facility. We train gymnasts from walking age-18 yrs. Victory offers competitive gymnastics, recreational gymnastics as well as tumbling and competitive cheerleading.

SAFETY

AGANA Baby
Clairemont Mesa, 858-277-3262
www.AganaBaby.com
Agana Baby carries a full line of products that will help keep your baby safe, happy and healthy. We carry Baby Ganics and Dapple cleaning products, which include items that are all-natural and fragrance free. Protect your baby from germs with a shopping cart cover and a new item in our store, the On-the-Go Pacifier Rinser! We also carry products to help child proof your home. Shop online at our website or visit our store.

San Diego Humane Society & SPCA
619-243-3424
www.sdhumane.org
Wondering about pet health and safety issues?  The San Diego Humane Society offers Pet First Aid classes at both its San Diego and Oceanside campuses. This class covers treatments for choking or breathing difficulties, possible broken bones, poisoning or snakebites and more. If you’re wondering about Pet Vaccines, on January 19 our Vaccination lecture will explain how vaccines work, the types of vaccines, benefits and risks as well as alternatives to vaccinating your pet. Registration is suggested for each program.

Taking Care of Your Family's Eyes

Since January is Eye Care month, this is a great time to think about your family’s eye health.

Because eye health and vision issues can lead to problems such as difficulty in school and vision loss, make sure that you are taking care of both your children’s eyes and your own eyes.

“Experts say 5 – 10 percent of preschoolers and 25 percent of school-aged children have vision problems,” says Dr. Dawn Gammon, Optometrist and CEO of The Eyewear Gallery. “Early identification of a child’s vision problem is crucial because, if left untreated, some childhood vision problems can cause permanent vision loss.”


Symptoms of Vision Problems
When Pam Vetter’s son Ian was in fifth grade, he started having difficulty seeing the chalkboard in school. She took him to an optometrist for a complete eye exam, and the doctor determined that he needed glasses. One of the first signs of vision problems that parents notice is difficulty in school, especially in reading and handwriting. Other signs of vision issues can include headaches, double vision and blurred vision.

Importance of Regular Eye Screenings
The American Optometric Association recommends that you take your baby for their first eye exam with an optometrist by six months of age to rule out eye health issues. You should also take your child for an eye exam when he is 3 years of age and before kindergarten. School-aged children should have a comprehensive exam every two years or whenever symptoms of eye or vision problems arise.
While your child’s pediatrician or school probably does a vision screening each year, it is important to also take your child for a complete eye exam.

“Vision screenings are designed to detect gross vision problems,” says Gammon. “But kids can pass a screening at school and still have vision problems that can affect their learning and school performance.” Gammon also reminds parents that school vision screenings does not evaluate the health of your child’s eyes for issues such as amblyopia (lazy eye), convergence insufficiency, focusing problems and eye teaming problems.

Corrective Lens for Kids and Adults
If your child needs to wear corrective lens, be positive about the glasses to your child and let them be involved in the process of picking out the frames. When Sophia Chiang’s daughter was diagnosed with far-sightedness in kindergarten, she took her to a children’s eyewear boutique and let her pick out a pair of rainbow-colored hand-painted glasses.

“We felt that if she liked her glasses, it would be less traumatic and she would wear the glasses all the time,” says Chiang.

Gammon recommends polycarbonate or trivex lens for kids because of durability. “If a child plays a rough sport like baseball, basketball, or hockey, goggles such as “Rec-Specs” are wonderful eye safety devices,” says Gammon.

When you feel your child is responsible enough to handle contacts, talk to their eye doctor about contact lenses. When Ian Vetter entered the sixth grade, he switched to contacts. His optometrist went over how to put them in, keep them clean and change the solution.

 “I take good care of my contacts because they’re expensive, and the doctor showed me how to take care of them. I change the saline solution every day so I don’t get eye infections,” explains Ian.

Adult Eye Care
In addition to taking care of your children’s eyes, be sure have your own eyes examined at least every two years. Gammon says that adults can help keep their eyes healthy by exercising regularly, not smoking, wear UV eyewear with UV protection and eat a diet rich in antioxidants, such as fruits and dark green vegetables.

Gammon also reminds parents to be screened regularly for diabetes and high blood pressure.     

“If left untreated, these diseases can cause eye problems. In particular, diabetes and high blood pressure can lead to diabetic retinopathy, macular degeneration, glaucoma and ocular hypertension,” says Gammon.

By making eye health a priority in your family, you will be helping to keep your children’s eyes healthy and correct any vision issues early. In addition, you will be teaching them the importance of taking care of their own eyes and developing a life-long habit of eye care.

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Jennifer Gregory is a freelance writer and mother of two. Her family finds it amusing that if she loses her glasses that they have to help her find them because she cannot see well enough to find her own glasses.