Dear Shayna B.,

I really love swimming, but my eyes burn whenever I go in the water. I’m so upset. I wait all winter to go in the water, but then my eyes turn red and hurt. What do I do when the thing I love most doesn’t love me back? I can’t give up swimming or even just playing in the water. What should I do?!

Sincerely,

Rebecca Red Eyes

Dear Rebecca Red Eyes,

Have no fear, Shayna is here. You don’t have to give up the water. Here are my many suggestions. Wear goggles when you go swimming. Put in eye drops. Swim in lakes instead of pools. No chlorine. Get a little above-ground pool. Fill it up with hose water. Turn on sprinklers. Go to splash pads. Go to the beach and play on the boardwalk. Don’t dunk your head in the water when you go swimming. Wear a floatie or use a pool noodle to keep your head above the water.

There are so many other water-related activities that you can do, so enjoy them while summer lasts. But if the burning doesn’t improve, remember, fall is on the way.

Best of luck,

Shayna B.

Shayna is a sixth grader and understands what kids in middle and elementary school are going through. She is happy to help others navigate this tricky time. She can be reached at [email protected]. She is looking forward to hearing from you soon.