Myopia Management for Kids in 2025: What Parents Need to Know

As we move further into 2025, the conversation around children’s eye health continues to evolve, especially when it comes to myopia. With more children spending time on screens and less time outdoors, the prevalence of myopia is rising worldwide. At Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare, we believe it is crucial for parents to stay informed about myopia and how it can impact their child’s health, learning, and future.

Understanding Myopia

Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a condition where distant objects appear blurry while close-up objects are seen clearly. This happens when the eyeball grows too long or the cornea is too curved, causing light to focus in front of the retina instead of directly on it. Myopia typically develops in childhood and can progress as a child grows.

Clear vision is essential for success in the classroom. Children with uncorrected myopia may struggle to see the whiteboard, read signs, or participate fully in class. These vision challenges can lead to headaches, fatigue, and even affect self-confidence. Over time, untreated myopia may contribute to academic difficulties and reduce a child’s overall engagement at school.

Recognizing the Signs of Myopia in Children

While some children may not realize they are having trouble seeing clearly, there are several signs parents can watch for that may indicate myopia:
 

• Squinting or Closing One Eye

• Sitting Too Close to Screens or the Front of the Classroom

• Complaints of Blurry Distance Vision

• Frequent Headaches or Eye Strain

• Rubbing Eyes Frequently

• Declining Performance in School

If you notice any of these signs, it is important to schedule a comprehensive eye exam for your child.

Why Regular Pediatric Eye Exams Matter

One of the best ways to protect your child’s vision is through routine eye exams. Pediatric eye exams allow for early detection of myopia - even before a child reports vision problems. Early intervention is critical, as myopia tends to progress more rapidly in children. Catching myopia early allows our optometrists to implement strategies to slow its progression and reduce future risks.

What Is Myopia Management and Why Is It Important?

Myopia management refers to treatments and strategies designed not only to correct vision, but also to slow the progression of myopia. This is especially important because high myopia significantly increases the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, cataracts, and even vision loss. By managing myopia during childhood, parents can help safeguard their child’s long-term eye health.

Myopia Management Treatment Options

Advances in myopia management have given families several effective options. At Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare, we take a personalized approach to each child’s care, recommending the most suitable treatments based on their unique needs and lifestyle.
 

• Orthokeratology (Ortho-K): Specially designed overnight contact lenses gently reshape the cornea while your child sleeps, providing clear vision during the day and slowing myopia progression.

• Atropine Eye Drops: Low-dose atropine drops, used nightly, have been shown to reduce the progression of myopia in children.

• Multifocal Soft Contact Lenses: These contact lenses are worn during the day and feature multiple zones of focus, which help to slow the elongation of the eye.

• Combination Therapy: Sometimes, a combination of treatments can be recommended for maximum effectiveness, depending on the individual needs of your child.

Safeguard Your Child’s Eye Health and Academic Success

We are committed to supporting families in Westmont, Illinois, and neighboring communities with the highest level of care for children’s vision. Myopia is a condition that requires ongoing attention, but with early intervention and personalized management, you can help protect your child’s eyesight for years to come.

If you are concerned about your child’s vision or would like to learn more about myopia management, schedule a pediatric eye exam at Clarendon Vision Advanced EyeCare. Visit our office in Westmont, Illinois, or call (630) 323-7300 to book an appointment today.