What Lifestyle Changes Can Help Control Myopia in Children?

Myopia is a growing concern among children today. As digital screen time increases and outdoor activity decreases, more young patients are being diagnosed with myopia at earlier ages. While professional myopia control treatments are highly effective, certain lifestyle changes can also play a crucial role in slowing the progression of this common vision issue.

Encourage More Outdoor Time

One of the most effective and natural ways to combat myopia progression is to spend more time outside. Studies show that children who spend at least 1.5 to 2 hours per day outdoors are less likely to develop or experience worsening myopia. Natural light exposure and distance-focused visual activity help reduce the strain caused by prolonged near tasks.

Limit Screen Time

Extended use of digital devices is a major contributor to eye strain and the worsening of myopia. Encourage your child to take regular breaks using the 20-20-20 rule - every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Set screen time boundaries and ensure your child takes breaks from computers, tablets, and smartphones throughout the day.

Create an Eye-Friendly Learning Environment

Whether reading or using digital devices, proper posture and lighting are essential. Make sure your child reads or works at a desk, not while lying down or in dim lighting. The ideal setup keeps screens at arm’s length and books about 14-16 inches from the eyes.

Ensure Regular Eye Exams

Routine comprehensive eye exams are vital. Even if your child seems to see well, regular check-ups can catch subtle changes in vision and allow for early intervention. Early detection allows us to recommend appropriate myopia control treatments tailored to your child's needs.

The Importance of Myopia Control Treatment

While lifestyle changes can support eye health, myopia control treatments are critical to slowing progression and protecting long-term vision. At Primera Eye Care, we offer proven options such as Ortho-K lenses, multifocal contact lenses, and atropine eye drops. These treatments work by reshaping the way light enters the eye or by addressing the underlying signals that cause the eye to grow too long. Controlling myopia early reduces the risk of future complications like retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular degeneration.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today 

Myopia is becoming more prevalent in children, but you can take proactive steps to slow its progression. By promoting healthier visual habits and exploring clinical myopia control treatments, you can help protect your child’s vision for the future.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Primera Eye Care and learn more about personalized myopia control options. Contact our office in Lake Mary, Florida, by calling (321) 343-5300 or text (407) 821-3345 to book an appointment today.