Learn about the orbicularis oculi muscle, the important muscle around your eyes that helps you blink, squint, and smile. Perfect for kids aged 10!
The orbicularis oculi muscle is a special muscle that goes all around your eye like a circle. Its main job is to help you blink and close your eyelids. Blinking is important because it keeps your eyes wet and clean by spreading tears over them. Without blinking, your eyes could get dry and uncomfortable.
When you squint (which means you partially close your eyes, usually when it's bright or to see better), this muscle tightens to help protect your eyes from bright light or dust. Also, when you smile or laugh, this muscle helps by making tiny wrinkles at the corners of your eyes, often called "crow's feet."
So, the orbicularis oculi muscle is like a helper around your eyes that keeps them safe, moist, and lets you make lots of expressions! It works like a little ring or belt around each eye that you can tighten or relax.