As parents, we want the best for our children — especially when it comes to their health. One common concern among families today is myopia, or nearsightedness. If your child has difficulty seeing distant objects clearly but can read a book or look at their phone with ease, they may be experiencing this condition. But what exactly is myopia, and how can you spot it early?
What is myopia? What Calgary parents need to know!
Myopia occurs when the eye is unable to focus on distant objects clearly. The problem arises when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or the lens (the eye’s natural focusing mechanism) has too much of a curve, or the eyeball is too long. As a result, light entering the eye doesn’t focus directly on the retina, the light-sensitive part at the back of the eye. Instead, the light is focused in front of the retina, causing distant objects to appear blurry.
While myopia can develop at any age, it is particularly common in children. If left unaddressed, it can progress, leading to more significant vision challenges.
Why myopia matters for Calgary Kids
Good grades start with good vision. Yet many children begin the school year with undiagnosed vision problems that can make it harder to concentrate, keep up in class, or feel confident in their learning.
When kids struggle to see the board or read their books, it doesn’t just impact academics—it affects focus, behavior, and self-esteem. The longer these issues go unnoticed, the more they can hold a child back.
Since 80% of learning happens through the visual system, even small vision issues can disrupt a child’s ability to perform at their best. If left untreated in the first few weeks of school, it can quickly impact their confidence and overall academic experience.
A comprehensive eye exam is a simple step that sets kids up for success.
Here’s what strong vision can support:
- Confidence in learning and social settings
- Fewer headaches and eye strain
- A more enjoyable school experience overall
What is myopia? Understanding myopia for children in Calgary
There are everyday actions you can take to help protect your child’s vision and slow the progression of myopia:
- Get Outside. Spending at least two hours outdoors each day (with proper sun protection) can significantly reduce the risk of developing myopia.
- Reduce Near Work. Limit screen time and encourage breaks from close-up tasks like reading or tablet use.
- Prescription Eyewear. Blue-light lenses can help reduce digital eye strain during study or screen time.
- Follow the 20/20/20 Rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds—and remember to blink!
How is myopia treated?
While there’s no cure for myopia, special prescription glasses and contact lenses can correct vision and manage myopia. Early detection is key—regular eye exams and prompt intervention can help slow myopia’s progression in children.
If diagnosed early, myopia care typically continues until age 18 or beyond. Every case is unique, so it’s important to work with your eye doctor to create a personalized treatment plan.
Research shows:
- 50% of myopia cases stabilize by age 16
- 75% stabilize between ages 18–23
What are the current treatment options?
After diagnosis, you and your eye doctor will develop a custom myopia care plan. Because myopic eyes grow too quickly and become elongated, treatment focuses on slowing that progression. Common myopia care options include:
Specialty glasses
Prescription lenses that are designed to focus light more effectively and reduce strain.
Specialty contact lenses
Designed to correct vision and help manage myopia progression.
Specialty eye drops
Low-dose atropine drops can be used to help slow eye growth.
Orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses
Custom rigid lenses worn overnight to reshape the cornea.
Taking steps now to protect your child’s vision can make a big difference for their future. Early detection of myopia, combined with regular eye exams and proper care, can help slow the progression of this condition. Encourage outdoor activities, limit screen time, and follow simple eye care habits. If you notice signs of myopia, consult with an eye care professional for personalized treatment options. Protecting their eyesight today ensures a clearer, brighter tomorrow.
Learn more about myopia care by visiting FYidoctors.com
Finding myopia care in Calgary
Think your child might have myopia? Early detection is key to managing it effectively. Book an eye exam at one of our Calgary clinics today and take the first step toward protecting their long-term vision 👓
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