How Does Outdoor Time in Summer Help Protect Against Myopia?

Summer brings longer days, sunshine, and plenty of opportunities for children to spend time outdoors. But did you know that outdoor playtime may also help protect your child’s vision? Studies have shown that increased time outside can lower the risk of developing myopia, also known as nearsightedness.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia is a common vision condition where distant objects appear blurry while close objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often begins in childhood and can worsen as kids grow, increasing the risk of more serious eye problems later in life.

How Outdoor Time Can Help Against Myopia

Spending time outdoors has been shown to slow the onset and progression of myopia in children. Bright outdoor light stimulates dopamine release in the retina, which helps regulate healthy eye growth. Additionally, outdoor activities give kids a natural break from close-up tasks like reading, homework, and screen time, all of which are linked to the progression of nearsightedness.

During the summer months, children have more free time to play outside, making it the perfect season to build healthy habits for eye health. Even just 1-2 hours of outdoor play each day can make a difference in protecting your child’s vision.

The Importance of Pediatric Eye Exams

Summer break is also an ideal time to schedule your child’s comprehensive eye exam. These exams allow eye doctors to detect early signs of myopia and other vision concerns before school starts. Catching changes in vision early ensures your child can see clearly in the classroom, on the sports field, and beyond.

When Is It Time to Consider Myopia Management Treatment?

If your child is diagnosed with myopia, outdoor time alone may not be enough. Myopia management treatments are designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness and reduce the risk of long-term complications. These treatments may include:

• Specialty contact lenses such as orthokeratology (Ortho-K) or MiSight 1 day contact lenses

• Prescription eye drops (like low-dose atropine)

If your child’s prescription is changing quickly or they are struggling to see clearly even with corrective lenses, it may be time to discuss myopia management options with your optometrist.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam at Lotus Eyecare

Outdoor play during the summer months is more than just fun - it’s a valuable tool in protecting your child’s eye health and lowering the risk of myopia. Pairing outdoor time with regular pediatric eye exams gives your child the best chance at maintaining clear vision as they grow.

At Lotus Eyecare, we are committed to helping children see their best today while protecting their vision for the future. Contact us to schedule a pediatric eye exam and ask about myopia management treatments that may be right for your child. Visit our office in Frisco, Texas, or call (972) 334-9095 to book an appointment today.