Western North Carolina is a great place to raise children. Families have access to so much more here than in many other places. Some of what sets us apart include:

• Some of the best doctors, hospitals, and healthcare you can find in a city our size. 
• Excellent public and private education at every level, including college. 
• Unique museums and historical sites to explore. 
• Multiple parks with accessible playgrounds, walking and biking paths, and picnic areas with mountain or river views. 
• Access to the Blue Ridge Parkway that winds around some of the tallest mountains east of the Mississippi River. 
• Thousands of miles of hiking and mountain biking trails for families to enjoy. 
• Rivers and creeks that beg to be paddled down in a raft, kayak, or tube. 
• Some of the best trout fishing waters in the country. 

With so much for children to see, many parents wonder when and how often they should schedule an exam.

Late spring through early summer is one of the most magical times to be in western North Carolina. It is a season of transition and growth, with the mountains and valleys springing to life. The ridges develop thick forest canopies while colorful wildflowers dance in the fields and meadows. This time beckons Asheville area residents to get outside and enjoy the natural surroundings. 

Athletics are an important part of life for children and adults. There are countless benefits to playing sports, and good to encourage children to participate in them even from a young age.

When it comes to protecting your vision, what you eat may affect the way you see. Certain vitamins and minerals found in food and supplements may play a role in preventing vision problems, including cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Eating the right food can protect your vision and keep you healthy. Researchers say that foods rich in vitamin C and E, zinc, lutein, zeaxanthin, and omega-3 fatty acids are linked to lower risk for age-related macular degeneration, cataract, and even dry eye later in life. To get these nutrients, your best sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants are organic, whole foods.