Eye health, 6 min read, September 2026 Childhood myopia often progresses as the eye grows. Regular follow-up tracks this change; time outdoors may help delay its onset, but is not a treatment on its own. ‘Will their myopia get worse? What can we do day to day?’ These are two common questions from parents. The answer depends on the child’s age, past progression and needs. Outdoor habits and myopia control options have different roles. Key points In myopia, light from distant objects focuses in front of the retina, often because the eye is too long for its optical power. Studies support more time outdoors to help delay the onset of myopia. Myopia control aims to slow its progression. A child does not always notice blurred vision or mention it. What changes in a myopic eye To see clearly at a distance, the eye needs to form the image on the retina at the back of the eye. In myopia, it forms in front, often because the eye is too long for its optical power. Distance vision becomes blurred; near sharpness depends on the degree of myopia and the distance being viewed. This is a refractive error, not a lack of effort. Eye growth plays an important part in its progression. Why it progresses during childhood The question is not only the number on today’s prescription, but how it changes between check-ups. Myopia can progress with growth and sometimes beyond adolescence. Follow-up reveals this trend and helps decide whether management needs to change. Family history and the visual environment contribute to the risk. Having a short-sighted parent increases the likelihood, without determining the child’s future vision on its own. Time outdoors and the onset of myopia Studies support more time outdoors to help delay the onset of myopia. The International Myopia Institute’s 2025 review notes that several countries recommend around two hours outdoors each day. This is a planning guide, not a threshold that guarantees individual protection. The effect of time outdoors alone on established myopia is less clear. A trial published in JAMA in 2015 illustrates this: in schools in Guangzhou, adding a 40-minute outdoor session each school day, alongside encouragement for families, was associated with fewer new cases of myopia over three years — 30.4% compared with 39.5% in the control group. This concerns the onset of myopia, not proof that going outdoors alone is enough to slow established myopia. Researchers are studying the role of outdoor light and the visual environment, including the duration, intensity and timing of exposure. These factors do not yet provide a single rule. Go outdoors with protection against UV and heat, and never look at the sun. Close work: the other variable Prolonged close work is associated with myopia. Books, homework and screens all form part of this question of distance and duration: no single object is the sole cause. The specific effect of screens remains complex, and the context of use matters. Maintain a comfortable reading distance and interrupt long periods of close work with breaks and other activities. This helps establish reasonable habits without replacing myopia follow-up. Our guide covers eye strain and screens. What ‘myopia control’ means Myopia control aims to slow progression, particularly excessive elongation of the eye. It does not reverse myopia that is already present. The response varies with the child and the approach chosen: repeated measurements assess results and guide follow-up, without guaranteeing that progression will stop completely. Correcting vision and slowing progression are two distinct aims: a pair of glasses may provide clear vision without being designed for myopia control. Ask the professional which aim the proposed eyewear serves and how its effect will be monitored. The available types of approach These options require assessment by a suitably qualified eye care professional and follow-up tailored to the child. Availability and prescribing rules vary by location. Approaches include specific spectacle lenses, certain daytime contact lenses, orthokeratology and low-dose atropine eye drops. Orthokeratology uses special lenses worn at night to temporarily change the shape of the cornea; this does not mean you can sleep in ordinary contact lenses. Each has its benefits, risks and follow-up needs; atropine requires a medical prescription and supervision. Our team explains prescriptions, takes lens-fitting measurements and helps you with glasses. When a medical assessment is needed, we refer you to an ophthalmologist. To understand the prescription, see reading a glasses prescription. Signs to watch for Squinting, moving closer to a screen or having trouble seeing the board may be clues. Note these situations even if your child does not complain about their vision. A child does not always have a point of comparison to describe their vision. Observations from parents and teachers are useful, but do not replace measurements. Bring previous prescriptions to the appointment: comparing them over time helps explain progression better than one isolated number. The professional sets the check-up schedule according to your child’s age, results and risk factors. Outdoor habits in Bali In Bali, plan outdoor time around the weather, heat and UV. Walks and outdoor play can become regular habits, with shade, a hat and suitable glasses. Our guide covers sun protection for children: children’s sunglasses. Time outdoors complements follow-up. At Maison Mata, we generally see children from age six for an eye examination, after confirmation by our team according to the child and the examination needed. Before that age, or if there is an eye health problem, seek appropriate screening or medical advice without delay. For your child’s vision check, visit Maison Mata in Canggu, Ubud or Sanur: book an eye examination. This article is provided for information and is not a diagnosis, medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Any decision about a child’s myopia, including myopia control, is the responsibility of an ophthalmologist or doctor. Sources for further reading AAPOS — Myopia and Treatment of Myopia in Children IMI — The Role of Light in Refractive Error Development and Myopia (2025) He et al., JAMA 2015 — Effect of Time Spent Outdoors at School Continue reading Children’s glasses: fit, comfort and careOptical guide: understanding prescription lenses and their coatings
