During the summer months, children spend more time outdoors enjoying the sunshine, sports, and play. Beyond the benefits of exercise and fresh air, research shows that outdoor activities may also play an important role in reducing the risk of myopia, or nearsightedness.

The Link Between Outdoor Play and Myopia

Studies have found that children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop myopia. While the exact reason is still being researched, several factors may contribute:

•          Natural light exposure: Sunlight helps regulate eye growth and may reduce excessive elongation of the eyeball, which causes myopia.

•          Focusing at different distances: Outdoor activities encourage the eyes to focus on distant objects, giving them a healthy break from close-up work like reading or screen time.

•          Reduced screen use: More outdoor play often means less time on digital devices, a known contributor to eye strain and myopia progression.

The Importance of Annual Pediatric Eye Exams

Many eye conditions in children, such as myopia, amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (eye misalignment), can develop quietly without obvious symptoms. Annual pediatric eye exams are critical for catching these issues early, often before a child or parent notices anything unusual. Detecting vision problems at an early stage ensures that treatment can begin promptly, helping to preserve visual development during crucial growth years.

The Role of Myopia Management Treatments

While outdoor play is beneficial, it isn’t always enough to prevent or slow down myopia, especially if a child is genetically predisposed. This is where myopia management treatments come in. Modern options available through optometrists include:

•          Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Special overnight contact lenses that reshape the cornea and control myopia progression.

•          Multifocal contact lenses: Designed to slow the rate of eye elongation while providing clear vision.

•          Atropine eye drops: Low-dose drops that have been shown to effectively slow myopia in children.

A personalized treatment plan, combined with increased outdoor activity, gives children the best chance to maintain healthy vision and reduce long-term risks like retinal detachment, glaucoma, or macular degeneration associated with high myopia.

Schedule a Pediatric Eye Exam with Opticore Optometry Group

Encouraging more outdoor play during the summer months is a simple and effective way to help reduce your child’s risk of developing myopia. However, for children already showing signs of nearsightedness, professional myopia management treatments provide an added layer of protection for long-term eye health.

At Opticore Optometry Group, we specialize in diagnosing, treating, and managing myopia with advanced solutions tailored to your child’s needs. Schedule your child’s eye exam and ensure healthy vision for the future. Visit our office in Chino, Redlands, Fontana, or Riverside, California, or call (866) 202-2221 to book an appointment today.