It’s impossible to understate how important good vision is when a child is growing up. It’s a time when they are learning and reacting to how the world works – and the finer details are critical.

In this article, we cover why regular children’s eye exams are crucial, what short-sightedness is, and the treatments we have available.

Benefits of early detection

Young children don’t have a visual frame of reference to work from, so may not be aware or able to communicate any vision issues they have. For many conditions, including short-sightedness, starting treatment early can greatly slow or reduce symptoms and complications in later life.

We’re also able to detect other conditions such as astigmatism (irregular focusing due to the eye shape), long-sightedness, lazy eye and Colour Visionness.

In our practices, we use advanced detection equipment but make it as child-friendly and fun as possible!

What is myopia?

Myopia, or short-sightedness, is when our eyes can focus on objects near to us, but struggle to focus on objects at a distance. It typically starts from around age 6-13 and can worsen until around 20, when the eyes stop growing.

Genetics can be a factor, and research also shows that increased screen time and less time spent outdoors can also contribute.

Myopia treatment options

Myopia treatment is all about managing its progression. There isn’t a quick fix, but solutions such as ortho-k contact lenses and specialised spectacles can make a significant difference.

1. Did you know we can treat your child’s myopia as they sleep? Ortho-k contact lenses are designed to be worn at night, gently reshaping the cornea (the domed outer layer of the eye). They both slow myopia progression and offer complete freedom from glasses or lenses during the day.
2. For those preferring glasses, special lenses are available that are designed to stop the eye from elongating, which is a major cause of myopia. These reduce myopia progression by an average of 67% when they’re worn for 12 hours a day.

Making sure your child spends time outside, takes frequent breaks from close-up tasks, and minimising their screen time have all been shown to help slow myopia progression.

Book an exam

Get in touch to arrange children’s eye exams with us. Our experts are available to conduct initial exams and follow up appointments to monitor changes and adjust your child’s treatment as needed.