Myopia (short-sightedness) in children is one of the pressing issues in modern ophthalmology. Increasing academic workload, prolonged use of digital devices and less time spent outdoors are receiving growing attention from ophthalmologists.

Specialists at the V.P. Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAMS of Ukraine emphasise that caring for a child’s vision should not begin when the child already complains of blurred vision. It should start much earlier, by developing healthy daily habits.

Myopia — A Challenge of Modern Childhood

Today, a significant part of children’s time is spent on activities that require focusing at on close-up activities: studying, reading and using smartphones, tablets and computers.

At the same time, children are spending less time outdoors. This is why current research is paying particular attention to the role of outdoor time and natural light in preventing myopia.

However, prolonged close-up visual strain and insufficient time spent outdoors are regarded as factors that may be linked to the development and progression of short-sightedness.

Why Is Natural Light Important for Children’s Eyes?

One of the most convincing recommendations in modern ophthalmology is to increase the amount of time a child spends outdoors during daylight hours.

Natural light is significantly brighter than indoor lighting. Research shows that children who regularly spend more time outdoors have a lower risk of developing myopia.

For this reason, specialists at the Filatov Institute advise parents to pay attention not only to the amount of time their child spends in front of a screen, but also to how much time they spend outdoors.

An Ideal Daily Habit — Around 2 Hours Outdoors

This does not have to be just a walk. Beneficial activities include:

• active games;
• playing sport;
• cycling;
• walks with the family;
• spending time in a park or at a playground.

The key is to do it regularly.

Does a Child Need to Give Up Smartphones Completely?

It is impossible to imagine modern life without digital technology. Children use computers and tablets for learning, doing homework, searching for information and communicating.

Therefore, the task for parents is not to ban gadgets altogether, but to strike a healthy balance:

screen time + breaks during close-up activities + adequate lighting + time outdoors + regular eye examinations.

It is particularly important to avoid prolonged, uninterrupted strain on the eyes.

How Can Parents Recognise Possible Signs of Myopia?

A child does not always realise that their vision has become worse. Pay attention to changes in their behaviour.

Possible signs include:

• squinting to see distant objects more clearly;
• trying to sit closer to the board;
• sitting too close to the television;
• holding a book or smartphone too close to their face;
• complaining of tired eyes;
• experiencing headaches after visual activities;
• frequently rubbing their eyes;
• noticing that they cannot see writing on the board or distant objects as clearly as before.

The appearance of these symptoms is a reason to consult an ophthalmologist rather than wait for the vision to return to normal on its own.

Regular Eye Examinations — The Best Prevention

Myopia can develop gradually, so a child may not always complain about changes in their vision.

This is why preventive eye examinations by a paediatric ophthalmologist are important. During an examination, the doctor can assess visual acuity, refraction and other parameters that are important for detecting vision problems at an early stage.

For children with risk factors, the doctor determines how often examinations are needed.

Nutrition Also Matters

A balanced and varied diet is an important part of a child’s overall health and normal development.

A child’s diet should contain sufficient amounts of:

• vegetables and greens;
• fruits;
• fish and other sources of omega-3 fatty acids;
• foods rich in vitamins and micronutrients.

At the same time, you should not give your child vitamin complexes or dietary supplements ‘to improve eyesight’ without consulting a doctor. The need for additional supplements should be discussed with a doctor.

Can the Development of Myopia Be Completely Stopped?

Modern ophthalmology offers methods for controlling the progression of myopia. However, the approach depends on the child’s age, the degree of myopia, the rate at which it is progressing and other individual factors.

Therefore, when myopia is diagnosed, it is important not to limit care to prescribing glasses, but to consult an ophthalmologist to assess the risk of progression and to select a personalised approach to monitoring and treatment.

WHAT CAN PARENTS DO TODAY?

☀️ Spend More Time Outdoors
Try to arrange for your child to spend around 2 hours outdoors every day.

📱 Use Digital Devices Wisely
Alternate close-up activities with regular breaks and other types of activities.

💡 Ensure Proper Lighting
Provide comfortable lighting conditions for reading and studying.

🥦 Maintain a Balanced Diet
Your child’s diet should be varied and nutritious.

👁 Have Regular Eye Examinations
Do not wait for symptoms to appear. Regular eye checks can help detect changes at an early stage.

Your Child’s Vision Starts with Daily Care

Specialists at the SI “V.P. Filatov Institute of Eye Diseases and Tissue Therapy of the NAMS of Ukraine” reminds that the preventing myopia requires a comprehensive approach. Healthy habits, sufficient time outdoors, sensible visual demands and regular ophthalmic examinations all play an important role.

Take care of your child’s vision today — for a confident future.