Myopia—commonly known as nearsightedness—means that distant objects appear blurry. It’s now one of the most common vision conditions in children, and it's increasing rapidly. Contributing factors include the rise in screen use, limited outdoor activity, and long periods spent focusing on near objects.
At Verona Eye Care Center, we specialize in pediatric eye care in Verona, offering advanced tools and guidance to help parents manage their children’s vision. Through early detection and proactive management in daily habits, myopia progression can be slowed, protecting long-term eye health.
How Screen Time and “Near Work” Affect Kids’ Vision
Today’s children spend hours each day doing "near work"—using tablets, reading, and doing homework. These close-up activities require constant focusing and can lead to eye strain and increased myopia risk when overdone.
Excessive screen time—especially without visual breaks—has been linked to the worsening of nearsightedness in children. Their eyes are still developing, and the strain from screens can cause permanent vision changes if not addressed early.
To understand more about how we approach this issue, visit our page on myopia control for children.
Why Outdoor Time Helps Protect Vision
One of the simplest and most effective ways to support healthy vision is outdoor play. Exposure to natural light and visual variety helps relax the eyes and can slow the progression of myopia. Research shows that time spent outside reduces the risk of nearsightedness in children.
The American Optometric Association recommends that children spend at least 2 hours outdoors daily. Whether it’s playing sports, walking the dog, or exploring the park, outdoor activity is key to kids’ vision health.
Tips for Parents: Simple Habits to Support Eye Health
Incorporate these easy strategies at home to help your child develop healthy visual habits:
- Use the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Create visual balance: Alternate screen use with outdoor or distance-focused activities.
- Ensure good lighting: Make sure reading and device use happen in well-lit areas.
- Limit recreational screen time: Keep it under 2 hours per day when possible.
- Monitor posture: Encourage upright sitting with screens at eye level.
These steps support myopia control in kids and reduce unnecessary visual strain.
The Importance of Annual Pediatric Eye Exams
Many children don’t report vision issues because they assume what they see is normal. That’s why early and routine eye exams are so important. A comprehensive check-up can catch problems before they affect school performance or worsen.
At Verona Eye Care Center, our pediatric eye exams in Verona assess more than just eyesight. We evaluate eye coordination, focusing ability, and detect early signs of myopia or other vision disorders.
If needed, we provide and guide a customized Myopia Management Plan, including Ortho-K, soft contact lenses, and Atropine drops.
Myopia Myths — Debunked
Here are two common myths we often hear from parents:
Myth 1: "Wearing glasses makes eyes weaker."
Fact: Glasses do not worsen vision. They correct existing refractive errors and help your child see clearly, reducing strain.
Myth 2: "Only adults get digital eye strain."
Fact: Children are just as susceptible. In fact, prolonged screen time can cause fatigue, headaches, and blurred vision in young eyes.
Understanding the truth behind these myths helps families take smarter steps toward vision health.
Take the First Step: Book Your Child’s Eye Exam
Myopia doesn’t have to control your child’s future. With the right combination of clinical care and daily habits, you can take charge of their eye health.
Schedule a comprehensive pediatric eye exam at Verona Eye Care Center in Verona today. Early action leads to better outcomes—and clearer vision for life.