From Screens to Solutions: What the Latest Research Says About Your Child’s Eyes

As the school year begins, parents are focused on giving their children every opportunity to succeed: new shoes, sharpened pencils, and a positive attitude. But one critical factor is often overlooked: clear, healthy vision.


At Treehouse Eyes, we specialize in protecting and preserving children’s eyesight. And this year, more than ever, we want families to know: myopia (blurry distance vision) isn’t just a vision problem. It’s a health risk with lifelong consequences if left unmanaged. The back-to-school season is the perfect time to take action.


What the Latest Research Tells Us: Myopia in 2025

The 2025 Myopia Consensus Statement, released by the World Society of Paediatric Ophthalmology & Strabismus (WSPOS), confirms what we see every day at Treehouse Eyes. Childhood myopia is on the rise globally, both in prevalence and severity.


Here are key takeaways every parent should know:

1. More Time Outdoors Helps Protect Vision

Outdoor light stimulates healthy eye development. Studies reviewed in the Consensus Statement show that just 40 to 80 minutes of outdoor time per day significantly reduces a child’s risk of developing myopia or experiencing rapid progression. This is especially impactful when children are young and their eyes are still developing.


2. Less Time on Screens, More Time on Balance

Near work, including reading, smartphone use, gaming, and homework, is associated with a higher risk of developing myopia. While these activities are often necessary for school and learning, frequent breaks and balancing screen time with outdoor play can make a measurable difference.


3. Advanced Myopia Treatments Are Here

The field of myopia management has evolved significantly in recent years. Today, there are many options for non-invasive myopia treatment:

  • Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: Proven to slow myopia by over 30% in many children, these lenses provide clear vision while also controlling eye growth.

  • Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Worn overnight, these contact lenses correct vision by morning and are backed by long-term data showing reduced eye elongation.

  • Low-Dose Atropine Eye Drops: Daily drops that are safe, well-tolerated, and effective at slowing myopia in even the youngest children, with minimal side effects.
     

These aren’t cookie-cutter or one-size-fits-all solutions. At Treehouse Eyes, we understand that every child is unique, and so is their vision. That’s why we take a personalized, data-driven approach to myopia management. Our expert doctors develop tailored treatment plans based on a comprehensive assessment of your child’s eye health, lifestyle, and individual risk factors. Whether your child is highly active, spends long hours on screens, or has a family history of myopia, we craft a plan that fits their specific needs, with the goal of giving them better vision for life in focus.


Why Back-to-School Is a Critical Moment

The return to school brings increased screen time, homework, and indoor activities, which are all risk factors for accelerating myopia. If your child is already nearsighted or beginning to show signs, the school year can trigger faster changes in their vision.


Even more important, uncorrected or rapidly progressing myopia can affect your child’s ability to concentrate, perform academically, enjoy sports, and feel confident. Many kids won’t say anything because they don’t realize their vision isn’t normal. That’s why regular, comprehensive eye exams and proactive treatment are essential.


Don’t Wait. Intervene Early.

The most effective time to begin managing myopia is as early as possible. Waiting often means the eye has already elongated, making treatment less effective and the risks more serious.


At Treehouse Eyes, we treat myopia as a medical condition, not just something to correct with thicker glasses. Our doctors use the latest diagnostic tools to assess your child’s risk and build a plan that slows progression, safely and comfortably.


Take the First Step From Home

You don’t have to wait for an in-office visit to take action.


Schedule a free virtual consultation with a Treehouse Eyes specialist and learn how we can help your child start the school year with healthy vision and long-term protection against serious eye disease.


👉 Schedule your virtual consult today


Hours are flexible to fit your busy schedule, and consultations are offered in both English and Spanish.


Give Your Child the Gift of Clear Sight This School Year

Vision is the foundation of learning. Let Treehouse Eyes partner with your family to ensure your child starts the year not just seeing clearly—but thriving confidently.


Because the most important school supply this year… is healthy vision.