Can Summer Break Help Slow Down Myopia Progression?

Summer break offers more than just a chance to relax. It is also an ideal time to support your child’s eye health. With fewer hours spent on homework and screens, and more opportunities to play outside, summer provides the perfect setting to help slow the progression of myopia. At Maxivision Eye Care, we are here to help Naperville families make the most of this season with expert care and proven myopia management solutions.
 

Understanding Myopia in Children

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common vision condition that causes distant objects to appear blurry while close-up objects remain clear. It occurs when the eye grows too long or the cornea becomes too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia often begins in childhood and tends to progress as children grow.
 

How Summer Break Can Help

The summer months provide a unique opportunity to support your child’s eye health. Studies have shown that increased time spent outdoors can help slow the progression of myopia in children. Natural light exposure and focusing on objects at a distance give the eyes a healthy break from near work and screen use.
 

Additionally, summer break typically means less time spent in front of digital devices for schoolwork. Reducing screen time is another key factor in managing myopia, as prolonged close-up activities can contribute to eye strain and further progression.
 

Summer is also the perfect time to schedule routine pediatric eye exams. With a more flexible schedule and fewer school commitments, it’s easier to prioritize your child’s vision and catch any changes early.
 

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is it Important?

Myopia management involves specialized treatments aimed at slowing down the progression of nearsightedness in children. We offer several evidence-based options, including:
 

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine has been shown to reduce the rate of myopia progression without significantly affecting pupil size or near vision.
• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): These are custom-designed rigid contact lenses worn overnight to gently reshape the cornea, providing clear vision during the day while also helping to slow eye growth.
• MiSight® 1 Day Contact Lenses: These FDA-approved soft daily lenses are designed specifically for myopia control and have been shown to effectively slow progression in children.

When to Consider Myopia Management

If your child has been diagnosed with myopia or you’ve noticed signs such as squinting, holding books too close, or frequent headaches, it may be time to explore myopia management options. Early intervention is key. The younger a child starts treatment, the better the chance of slowing the condition’s progression and reducing their risk for future eye health complications like retinal detachment, glaucoma, or cataracts.
 

Take the First Step Today

Summer is a great chance to reset your child’s visual habits and take proactive steps toward long-term eye health. Encouraging more outdoor play and reducing screen time can naturally support their eyes, and pairing these habits with myopia management treatment can make a lasting difference.
 

Schedule a pediatric eye exam with Maxivision Eye Care to learn more about personalized myopia management options and how you can take advantage of the summer months to support your child’s visual development. Visit our office in Naperville, Illinois, or call (630) 904-1900 to book your appointment today.