Smart phones, tablets, and computers all make life more convenient and provide quick entertainment. However, kids who spend too much time using screens and don’t go outside and play are more likely to experience eye problems. These children are more likely to be nearsighted and to progress more quickly on to higher levels of myopia.
Getting outside can be a part of a number of activities, not just sports. Playing, taking a walk, doing yard work or shoveling snow, or walking the dog (or the neighbor’s dog) are all simple and fun ways to enjoy some exercise. Anything where the smart phone or tablet is left inside and the eyes are able to rest is a great option!
Getting outside can be challenging if the weather doesn’t cooperate. If it’s exces-sively snowy or rainy, you might want to gather the family for a game night or to participate in fun indoor activities. With proper gear, playing or walking in cold weather can be fun! It all starts with parents giving their kids some guidelines to follow, and monitoring their daily activities.
Now that it is getting darker earlier, by the time your child gets home, has a snack, and gets going on homework, it can be dark outside by the time they finish. How-ever, it is possible to restructure their day to ensure that they get that valuable play time!
Consider this: After school, once they have had a snack, send them out to play for an hour while it’s still light outside. Then, when they come back in, they can tackle that homework and maybe even have a little bit of screen time before dinner.
Our mission is to control and manage nearsightedness in children. Now, you know how you can help us with that mission. If you have any more questions, or if you think your child might be due for a checkup, schedule an appointment.! Call (847) 705-7777 today!