Can I keep my child from developing nearsightedness?

This is a question I hear quite often from concerned parents – is there anything I can do to help keep my child’s vision from going bad?

While there is a definite genetic link to developing nearsightedness, or myopia, there is also an environmental impact as well. While a previous study has linked playing outdoors to slowing the progression of myopia, a new study has shed light, pun intended, on why that is the case. This study looked at children and their level of physical activity as well as their amount of light exposure. In comparing nearsighted children to those who needed no prescription, the study found that there was no difference in the amount of exercise they got everyday, but there was a significant difference in their exposure to natural light. 

So, the answer to the question above is ‘yes there is!’ Make sure you child is outside while they are playing and while they are inside, make sure you keep the shades open to let the natural light in.  As a side note, be sure to protect your child’s eyes from harmful UV exposure while they are outdoors.

Alhambra Hall Playground