Preventing short-sightedness in children: signs, causes and solutions

Preventing short-sightedness in children: warning signs, causes and professional solutions

Short-sightedness in children can worsen rapidly between the ages of 6 and 16. The main signs are: holding books or screens too close, squinting, headaches and difficulty seeing things in the distance. Prevention relies on regular check-ups, specialised lenses and professional programmes such as the Advanced Contact Lens Practice and lenses for managing short-sightedness, such as MiyoSmart

What is short-sightedness in children, and why is it on the rise today?

Short-sightedness is a difficulty in seeing clearly from a distance. In children, however, it is not just a visual impairment: it is a rapidly growing phenomenon linked to prolonged screen use, limited exposure to natural light, close-up reading and genetic predisposition. For further information, you can consult our glossary dedicated to the main visual impairments.

Warning signs you shouldn’t ignore

  • It’s very similar to books, tablets or TVs
  • Squint to focus
  • He complains of a headache or tired eyes
  • He has difficulty seeing the blackboard
  • He tilts his head to read
  • He asks for the screen brightness to be increased

Why does short-sightedness get worse as we grow up?

Between the ages of 6 and 16, the eye grows rapidly. If the eye elongates too much (axial elongation), short-sightedness increases. This progression is a natural part of development, but it can be managed with professional care. Discover our solutions designed for children's glasses.

What to do straight away

  1. Professional optometric examination to assess vision, posture and working distance.
  2. Analysis of the risk of myopia based on age, progression and lifestyle.
  3. Tailored solutions: MiyoSmart lenses, advanced contact lens practice, reading glasses.

The most effective professional solutions

MiyoSmart lenses (Hoya)

MiyoSmart lenses use D.I.M.S. technology to slow the progression of myopia. Find out more about our lenses designed for children.

Advanced Contact Lens Practice

A specialist service dedicated to contact lenses for children and teenagers. Discover the full range of services: Advanced Contact Lens Practice.

Children's glasses

Lightweight, durable, ergonomic frames with lenses designed for studying. Take a look at our selection of children's glasses.

Time taken to improve

The first improvements are visible within 3–6 months. Stabilisation is assessed after 12 months. Monitoring is ongoing.

Practical advice for parents

  • 2 hours a day in the open air
  • The 20-20-20 rule
  • Working distance: at least 35–40 cm
  • Natural light wherever possible
  • Avoid giving smartphones to children under the age of 10

Book a professional check-up

A dedicated programme, advanced tools, bespoke solutions.
Book your Advanced Contact Lens Course now

Why choose Isolani for the management of short-sightedness in children

Isolani is one of the Italian centres with the most extensive experience in managing progressive myopia in children. Every year, we treat hundreds of children using personalised treatment plans, advanced tools and specialised lenses such as MiyoSmart. We work in collaboration with ophthalmologists and specialists to ensure a comprehensive, safe and scientifically-based approach.

FAQ

How can I tell if my child is short-sighted?

See if they get very close to screens, squint or have difficulty seeing things from a distance.

Can short-sightedness get worse quickly?

Yes, particularly between the ages of 6 and 16, when the eye grows rapidly.

Do MiyoSmart lenses really work?

Yes, they are designed to slow down the progression of myopia in children.

How often should I have a check-up?

Every 6 months to monitor progress.

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