If your child squints to see the TV, moves closer to screens, or struggles to read the classroom board, they may be showing early signs of myopia—commonly known as nearsightedness.
At Eye & Vision Care Optometric Group, we often see children develop myopia during their early school years, when clear distance vision becomes crucial for learning and development. Understanding what to look for can help parents catch these changes before they impact a child’s confidence or academic performance.
How Myopia Develops
Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back or the cornea is too curved. This causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it, leading to blurry distance vision. According to Dr. Luke Werkhoven, myopia “typically presents early in life with difficulty seeing distant objects.” Children often compensate by squinting or moving closer to what they’re trying to see, whether that’s a TV, a whiteboard, or a road sign.
Because vision development continues throughout childhood, early detection is essential. When left uncorrected, myopia can progress rapidly, increasing the risk of future eye diseases such as retinal detachment or glaucoma.
When to Schedule Eye Exams
Dr. Werkhoven emphasizes that early exams make a difference. “We’ve been part of InfantSEE for about 20 years,” he explains. “We screen infants at 6 to 12 months, then again at ages three and five to catch early onset myopia.” While myopia in babies is rare, regular exams ensure changes are caught before they interfere with a child’s daily life.
Once a child starts school, annual eye exams are especially important. Teachers often notice vision changes first—students may complain about blurry writing on the board or ask to move closer to the front of the classroom. Parents might notice similar issues during family outings, such as when a child struggles to read road signs from the back seat.
The Role of Genetics and Growth
A strong genetic component plays a key role in determining a child’s risk. “The biggest risk factor for myopia progression is age of onset,” Dr. Werkhoven says. “If you get myopia prior to your teenage years, you can guarantee it’s going to progress.”
Children with one or both parents who are nearsighted are much more likely to develop progressive myopia themselves. As children grow, so do their eyes. This natural growth can lengthen the eyeball and worsen nearsightedness if not carefully managed. Early monitoring helps control this progression and keeps vision stable during key developmental years.
Early Detection Protects Lifelong Vision
Recognizing the first signs of myopia is the first step in protecting your child’s eyesight. Through regular comprehensive eye exams, parents can ensure that small changes in distance vision are detected early and managed before they lead to long-term complications.
Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam in Santa Barbara
Clear vision is essential for learning and play. Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Eye & Vision Care Optometric Group today to check for signs of myopia and support your child’s visual health as they grow. Our friendly team provides personalized care and early intervention to help children see clearly and confidently every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the earliest signs that my child might be nearsighted?
- Squinting to see distant objects, sitting too close to screens, or complaining about not seeing the board clearly are the most common early indicators of myopia in children.
At what age should my child start getting regular eye exams?
- Eye exams should begin as early as six months of age through programs like InfantSEE, followed by additional exams at ages three and five. Once school begins, annual exams help catch early vision changes.
Does screen time increase my child’s risk of myopia?
- Extended screen use and limited outdoor time are both linked to the rise in childhood myopia. Encourage frequent breaks from screens and more time outdoors to support healthy visual development.
If one or both parents are nearsighted, will my child develop myopia too?
- Genetics play a significant role. Children with nearsighted parents are more likely to develop myopia, especially if it begins at an early age. Early exams and ongoing monitoring are key.
Can myopia be treated or reversed?
- While myopia itself can’t be reversed, it can be managed. Specialized treatments such as orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses and myopia control programs can help slow its progression.