As fall sports kick into high gear; whether it’s soccer, football, cross country, or even tennis; kids of all ages are back on the field, court, and track. But while helmets, pads, and cleats are often top of mind, there’s one piece of equipment that’s frequently overlooked: eye protection.
At VisionQuest Eyecare, we believe your child’s vision is just as important as their physical performance. Whether your young athlete is just starting out or plays competitively, here are essential eye safety tips every parent should know this fall.
Why Eye Safety in Sports Matters
Sports-related eye injuries send thousands of children to the emergency room every year. What’s even more concerning? According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 90% of these injuries are preventable with the proper protective eyewear.
Sports like basketball, baseball, soccer, and racquet sports are high-risk activities for eye injuries. From fast-moving balls to accidental pokes and collisions, it only takes a moment for vision to be compromised.
Protecting your child’s eyes doesn’t just prevent injury, it supports sharp, comfortable vision that can improve their performance on the field.
Common Vision Risks in Youth Sports
Depending on your child’s age and sport, different risks may apply:
- Younger children (5–12) often play in unregulated environments without protective gear and may not yet understand spatial awareness, increasing injury risk.
- Teens (13–18) playing competitive sports may experience high-speed impacts or rely on glasses or contacts that aren’t suited for rigorous activity.
- Outdoor athletes face increased exposure to UV rays and glare, especially in early fall sunlight.
Knowing what your child needs based on their activity and age is the first step toward safer play.
Must-Have Eye Protection for Youth Athletes
Choosing the right eyewear can be a game changer—literally. Here are several options to consider this fall:
1. Prescription Sports Goggles
If your child wears glasses, standard frames aren’t designed for impact. Sports goggles with prescription lenses offer clear vision, comfort, and shatter-resistant safety during active play.
Look for lenses made of polycarbonate, a durable material that can withstand direct hits without breaking.
2. UV-Protective and Transition Lenses
For outdoor sports like soccer or cross country, UV exposure can damage the eyes over time. Sunglasses or transition lenses (which darken in sunlight) help protect young eyes while improving visual clarity in bright conditions.
3. Contact Lenses for Teen Athletes
For older kids and teens, contact lenses offer unobstructed vision and freedom of movement. They’re especially helpful in sports that require helmets or headgear, like football or lacrosse. If your child is interested in contacts, our team can perform a customized fitting and guide them on safe usage.
4. Vision Therapy for Performance Enhancement
Did you know that many sports skills—like tracking a ball, depth perception, or hand-eye coordination—rely on visual processing? If your child struggles to “keep their eye on the ball,” Vision Therapy may help.
Vision therapy is a non-surgical treatment program that trains the eyes and brain to work more efficiently together. It’s especially beneficial for kids who experience visual challenges in sports despite having “20/20” vision.
The Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams for Student Athletes
When your child hits the field this fall, make sure they’ve had a recent pediatric eye exam.
These exams go beyond basic vision screenings at school and test for:
- Depth perception
- Visual tracking
- Eye coordination
- Refractive errors (nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism)
If any of these areas are lacking, it can directly impact their performance, and enjoyment, of the sport. Annual exams also ensure their prescription is up to date for school and athletic activities.
Tips for Parents: Keeping Your Athlete’s Eyes Safe
Here are a few practical ways to support your child’s eye health during sports season:
- Choose sport-specific eyewear designed for impact protection and visibility
- Schedule a pediatric eye exam before the sports season begins
- Encourage your child to wear their protective eyewear even during practice
- Watch for signs of visual strain, like squinting or losing track of the ball
- If your child wears contacts, ensure they’re using proper hygiene and storage
Why Choose VisionQuest Eyecare for Your Young Athlete?
At VisionQuest Eyecare, we offer tailored vision solutions for kids and teens involved in all levels of sports. Our services include:
- Pediatric eye exams for early detection of visual issues
- Prescription sports eyewear with impact-resistant lenses
- Contact lens fittings designed for active lifestyles
- Vision therapy programs that support visual performance
We’re proud to serve families throughout Greenwood and Fishers with expert care and a wide range of kid-friendly eyewear options. Whether it’s their first season or they’re playing varsity, we’ll help your child stay sharp, safe, and confident.
Ready to Protect Your Child’s Vision?
Fall sports are in full swing, don’t wait to make eye protection a priority. The right eyewear not only prevents injuries but also gives your child the visual edge to compete and succeed.
Schedule a pediatric eye exam today or stop by one of our locations in Greenwood or Fishers to explore protective eyewear options designed for youth athletes.
Vision is the secret weapon every athlete needs. Let us help your child see their game more clearly.
Dr. Gaia Hess is a vision therapy and myopia management doctor with VisionQuest Eyecare. She’s passionate about pediatric eyecare and educating her young patients and their parents so they can understand what’s happening with their eyes and the best ways to improve their vision.