07/15/2025
Coastal Corner: Outdoor Playtime and Myopia in Children
In today’s world of screens and indoor activities, children are spending less time outside than ever before. While digital learning and entertainment have their place, there’s growing evidence that outdoor activity plays a crucial role in preventing myopia (nearsightedness) in children. If you’re a parent concerned about your child’s eye health, encouraging more outdoor play might be one of the simplest yet most effective ways to help protect their vision.
The Link Between Outdoor Time and Myopia
Research has consistently shown that children who spend more time outdoors are less likely to develop myopia. This connection isn’t just coincidental—scientists believe that exposure to natural light and the visual demands of outdoor environments help regulate eye growth and development.
Myopia occurs when the eyeball grows too long, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. This leads to blurry distance vision. Outdoor play, with its bright light and opportunity to focus on distant objects, may slow down the elongation of the eye.
Why Outdoor Play Makes a Difference
Natural Light Exposure: Sunlight stimulates the release of dopamine in the retina, which helps prevent excessive eye growth.
Distance Viewing: Unlike screens or books, outdoor activities encourage children to focus on objects far away, promoting healthier eye development.
Reduced Near Work: Time spent outdoors naturally limits the hours children spend on close-up tasks like reading, homework, or screen time.
How Much Outdoor Time Is Enough?
Studies suggest that children need at least 1 to 2 hours of outdoor activity per day to significantly reduce their risk of developing myopia. This can include anything from playing sports, riding bikes, or simply exploring the backyard.
Signs Your Child May Be Developing Myopia
While outdoor play can help prevent myopia, it’s also important to recognize the early signs. If your child:
Squints often when looking at distant objects
Sits very close to the TV or holds books too close
Complains of headaches or eye strain
Has difficulty seeing the board at school
It may be time for a comprehensive eye exam.
Simple Ways to Increase Outdoor Time
Daily Walks or Playtime: Make outdoor activities a part of your family’s daily routine.
Limit Screen Time: Set boundaries around recreational screen use to encourage more outdoor play.
Outdoor Hobbies: Encourage hobbies that naturally take kids outside—sports, gardening, or nature exploration.
Weekend Adventures: Plan family outings to parks, trails, or the beach to maximize outdoor exposure.
Final Thoughts
Incorporating more outdoor time into your child’s day is one of the easiest and most beneficial ways to protect their eye health. While glasses or contact lenses can correct vision, preventing or slowing the progression of myopia starts with healthy habits early on. If you have concerns about your child’s eyesight, don’t hesitate to schedule an eye exam. Let’s give our kids every opportunity to see the world clearly—starting with a little more time under the sun.
