Children’s book aims to ease sight test fears

A children’s book featuring eye health superheroes has been published by Tompkins Knight & Son Optometrists in Northampton.

The Eye Wizard, Dry Eye Doc and The BV (Binocular Vision) Girl star in Sunny’s Trip to the Optometrists – which will be available for parents to read with their children ahead of their appointment.

Tompkins Knight & Son director, Brian Tompkins, shared that a visit to the optometrist is vital for long-term eye health, but for some children it can seem daunting.

“We wanted to create something that gets them relaxed and actually looking forward to their visit,” he said.

Optometrist and artist, Rebecca Ireland, contributed illustrations to the book.

“The book is a fun way of introducing children to the team they’ll meet when they come to see us while explaining all the tests we’ll be carrying out and how we can help them to keep seeing better for longer,” Tompkins shared.

Optometrist and Tompkins Knight & Son clinical director, Dr Keyur Patel, highlighted the importance of regular sight tests for early diagnosis and intervention in myopia.

He urged parents to encourage their children to swap digital devices for outdoor activities during the summer holidays.

“Environment plays a significant role in myopia and therefore, everyone can use some simple strategies to help protect their vision both now and into the future,” he said.

Patel shared that two hours of outdoor time each day can reduce the risk of developing myopia, while large amounts of near work without taking a break can increase a child’s risk of developing the condition.