Managing Myopia in Kids: Summer Tips for Healthier Vision

Summer is a great time for kids to relax, play, and enjoy the outdoors, but it is also a season when their vision needs extra attention. As more children are diagnosed with myopia at younger ages, it's important for parents to be proactive about eye health. With the right habits and preventive care, you can help protect your child’s sight and support healthy vision development all year long.
 

What Is Myopia?

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up items remain clear. It often develops during childhood and can worsen as kids grow. The primary cause is an elongation of the eyeball, which causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Genetics and lifestyle habits can also contribute to its progression.
 

Summer Tips for Healthier Vision

Summer presents a great opportunity to develop healthy vision habits that can help slow myopia progression. Here are some practical tips to protect your child’s eyesight during the break:

• Encourage More Outdoor Time: Studies show that spending at least 90 minutes per day outdoors can reduce the risk of myopia progression. Natural light and looking at objects at a distance both benefit eye development.

• Take Breaks from Screens: Whether it's a tablet, phone, or TV, prolonged screen use can strain the eyes. Use the 20-20-20 rule; every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds to give the eyes a rest.

• Wear Sunglasses and a Hat: UV protection is essential, especially during peak sunlight hours. Choose sunglasses with 100% UVA and UVB protection to shield growing eyes from harmful rays.

• Maintain a Healthy Diet: Nutrient-rich foods like leafy greens, carrots, eggs, and fish provide essential vitamins and minerals that support eye health.

• Limit Nighttime Device Use: Exposure to blue light before bed can affect sleep quality and may contribute to eye fatigue. Set a routine to reduce screen use at least an hour before bedtime.
   

The Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams

Even if your child isn’t showing symptoms of vision problems, annual eye exams are crucial. Pediatric eye exams can detect early signs of myopia or other conditions before they significantly affect vision or academic performance.
 

At Unique Eyecare & Optical, we recommend scheduling a comprehensive eye exam before the school year begins. Summer is the ideal time to assess vision changes without the stress of school routines.
 

When to Consider Myopia Management Treatment

If your child’s prescription has been steadily increasing, or if they were recently diagnosed with myopia, it may be time to explore treatment options designed to slow its progression. Dr. Gaston will work with you to determine the most suitable approach based on your child’s age, prescription, lifestyle, and risk factors.
 

Help Your Child See Their Best This Summer and Beyond

Protecting your child’s vision starts with awareness and early action. By encouraging healthy habits, spending time outdoors, and staying on top of regular eye exams, you can play a key role in managing myopia and supporting long-term eye health.
 

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Unique Eyecare & Optical to ensure your child’s eyes are ready for the season ahead and the school year to come. Visit our office in Houston, Texas, or call (713) 522-2007 to book an appointment today.