Encouraging Outdoor Play: A Key to Reducing Myopia Risk and Promoting Eye Health

As caregivers, we all want our children to thrive, both physically and mentally. In today’s digital age, it's increasingly important to encourage children to engage in outdoor activities to reduce screen time and promote healthy eye development. While outdoor play offers numerous benefits, one of the most crucial advantages is its potential to reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. In the U.S. alone, 1 in 3 kids are now myopic and risk a lifetime of not just poor vision but also an increased risk of serious eye diseases associated with higher myopia.
 

Outdoor Play and Myopia Progression

Myopia is a growing concern for children worldwide with numbers reaching epidemic levels. It occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back (axial length), causing blurry vision at a distance. The prevalence of myopia has been rising rapidly, and research suggests that excessive screen time indoors may be a key contributor. Children today spend an increasing amount of time on devices like smartphones, tablets, and computers, which can contribute to eye strain and the development of myopia.

However, studies have shown that outdoor activities, especially those that involve natural light, can have a protective effect on children’s eye health. Spending time outdoors, playing sports, or simply engaging in recreational activities, can help slow the progression of myopia. One theory is that exposure to natural light helps regulate the eye’s growth, potentially reducing the risk of developing myopia or slowing its progression in children who already have it.

In addition to reducing the risk of myopia progression, outdoor play helps improve a child's physical fitness, coordination, and social skills. It encourages active movement, fosters teamwork through sports, and provides a natural break from digital screens, which have become an increasing part of daily life for many children. As part of this shift, many parents and caregivers are turning to sports as a way to promote both physical health and eye health for their children.
 

Sports and Eye Health

Sports, from soccer and basketball to tennis and swimming, offer a variety of benefits for children. Not only do they provide opportunities for fitness and fun, but sports also help improve concentration, problem-solving skills, and teamwork. However, sports can also pose certain risks to eye health. Whether it's a fast-moving ball or a player’s elbow, eye injuries are not uncommon in sports, and it's crucial to take steps to protect children from harm.

This brings us to Sports Eye Safety Month in April—an observance dedicated to raising awareness about protecting the eyes during sports activities. While April is often a month when children are getting outside and actively participating in sports, it’s also a time to remember the importance of eye protection and safety measures. With so many children playing sports, this month serves as a reminder for caregivers to ensure their children are well-prepared to prevent injuries.
 

The Importance of Eye Protection During Sports

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, sports-related eye injuries are among the leading causes of vision loss in children. Yet, many of these injuries can be prevented with the proper eye protection. During Sports Eye Safety Month, it’s essential to talk about the importance of equipping children with appropriate eyewear to reduce the risk of eye trauma while playing sports.


Some of the most common sports that lead to eye injuries include:

• Basketball

• Soccer

• Baseball/Softball

• Hockey

• Racquet sports like tennis and squash

While sports like these are great for physical activity and social development, they also come with risks. From a flying ball to an elbow in the face, there are many potential hazards that can lead to eye injuries. However, the good news is that most of these injuries are preventable.
 

Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Eyes During Sports

1. Wear Protective Eyewear: Ensure that your child wears sports goggles or safety glasses designed for the specific activity they are involved in. Protective eyewear can help prevent trauma from foreign objects, including balls and sticks, and shield the eyes from other accidents that could cause serious damage.
    

2. Choose the Right Equipment: Different sports require different types of protection. For example, football players should wear face shields, while basketball players may benefit from padded eyewear. Always make sure the eyewear is appropriate for the sport your child is participating in.
    

3. Proper Fit: It’s essential to choose eyewear that fits properly and is comfortable for your child. Ill-fitting glasses or goggles can easily be forgotten or not worn correctly, leading to ineffective protection.
    

4. Regular Eye Exams: Beyond just sports-related injuries, regular eye exams are crucial for detecting conditions like myopia. Early intervention can help slow the progression of myopia and ensure that your child’s vision is at its best, both on and off the field.
    

Myopia Management: A Comprehensive Approach

At Treehouse Eyes, we specialize in myopia management for children. In addition to promoting outdoor play and sports safety, we offer effective, non-invasive treatments to help slow the progression of myopia. Options like Ortho-K lenses (contact lenses used to help shape the cornea overnight), MiSight® 1 day (soft contact lens proven to slow the progression of myopia in children, aged 8-12 at the initiation of treatment), and Atropine eye drops are all designed to help manage myopia in a way that is kid-friendly.

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia, our team can provide a tailored treatment plan to help them maintain clear vision as they grow. Our focus is not just on vision correction, but also on preventing the progression of myopia, which can significantly reduce the risk of more serious eye conditions later in life such as retinal disease or glaucoma.
 

A Holistic Approach to Eye Health

This Sports Eye Safety Month, it’s crucial to remember that protecting your child’s eyes goes beyond just preventing injuries. By encouraging outdoor play, supporting sports participation, and focusing on myopia management, caregivers can play a vital role in safeguarding their child’s vision for the future.

At Treehouse Eyes, we are here to support you with expert advice, treatments, and resources to ensure your child’s eyes stay healthy. So, as you get ready for another month of spring sports and outdoor activities, make sure your child’s eye health is at the top of your list!

For more information on myopia management or to schedule a consultation, visit Treehouse Eyes.

Let’s work together to protect your child’s vision and encourage healthy outdoor play.