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Fall Registration Take steps to guard children from eye damage caused by computer use (NC)--The average North American child spends from one to three hours per day with his or her eyes on a computer screen, resulting in a startling increase of nearsightedness (myopia) in children. "A study at the University of California reports that 25 to 30 per cent of computer-using children need corrective eyewear to work with the equipment comfortably and safely ­ and similar studies in Asia report that first-graders with myopia has increased from 12.1 to 20.4 per cent since 1995. In the last three years, myopia is reported to have doubled to 34 per cent in seven- to nine-year olds," says Bijan Minbashion, vice president of operations for Hakim Optical, a national leader in retail eye care. To guard against early damage consider these Hakim Optical tips: · Schedule a comprehensive eye exam as your child enters kindergarten, including near-point (computer and reading) and distance testing. · Schedule an eye exam before school begins every year. · The recommended distance for children between the monitor and the eye is 18-28 inches. Any closer risks eye strain. 19 · Wednesday, August 29, 2012 OAKVILLE BEAVER · www.insideHALTON.com Get 'The Edge' Continued from page 18 dents develop and are valued as individuals and artists. The Edge offers a variety of programs. The recreational and precompetitive classes are for kids age 3 to 18, and are offered in diverse styles such as jazz, tap, ballet and more, to suit every child's needs. Classes are taught in a fabulous environment where colours are bright, light pours in, and music and laughter can be heard all around. There is encouragement and creativity during all classes. The Edge School of Performing Arts is located at 2251 West Oak trails just east of Fourth Line. Programs run from September to June. For more information, call 905-847-9932, drop by the studio or visit www.theedgepa.ca. Start your Little Dancer out on the right foot! Oakville Children's Music Theatre The only children's program in Oakville that is dedicated exclusively to Musical Theatre Recognized by the Government of Canada for working creatively with children in their pursuit of excellence in Musical Theatre since 1995. Level One: JK to Grade 2 · Level Two: Grades 3, 4 and 5 · Level Three: Grades 6, 7 and 8 All classes culminate in a full "Broadway Style" showcase in June All teachers have University / College degrees and are sensitive to the individual requirements of our students. Student teacher ratio 5 to 1. Self Esteem · Confidence · Teamwork Specialized introductory dance classes for Children & Pre Schoolers Offering daytime and evening Creative Movement and Pre Dance Classes 5 days a week! 905·842·9535 www.ocmt.on.ca Open for Registration ALL summer Mon,Wed,Thursday (9 a.m. - 5 p.m.) Tuesday (9 a.m. - 8 p.m.) 2210 Speers Rd (west of 3rd Line) 905-815-9239 allegrodance.ca Laura Dacyshyn, Director - former dancer with the National Ballet of Canada