Healthy Sunlight Exposure: Why Is It Good for Kids’ Eyes?

Natural light can encourage the body’s production of vitamin D, which is crucial for strong bones and the immune system. It can improve your focus, boost your mood and even help you sleep better. Healthy amounts of sun exposure can also benefit your child’s eyes. Learn how from your local pediatric eye care and sports vision training expert. 

Myopia in Children

Myopia or nearsightedness is a refractive error that can develop during childhood. It occurs when the cornea is too curved or the eyeball is too long. These imperfections can cause a person to have blurry distant vision. Children with nearsighted parents are up to six times more likely to develop myopia. 

Genetics isn’t the only factor affecting a child’s risk of getting myopia. Doing tasks that require focusing on nearby objects, such as digital screens, for too long has been associated with this eye condition. Studies also found a link between a lack of bright light exposure and myopia development. 

Does your child keep squinting or complaining about headaches? If so, schedule an appointment with your local eye doctor. It could be that they need to start wearing prescription glasses. 

How Moderate Sun Exposure Can Benefit Your Child’s Eyes 

Retinal dopamine is a neurotransmitter that can impede eye elongation, a common reason myopia occurs. Studies show that sunlight can aid with retinal dopamine production, helping regulate eye growth. It’s also been discovered that blue light from the sun has a protective effect on the retina, lowering the risk of myopia development. 

Experts recommend children spend at least an hour and a half outdoors early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the sun isn’t that harsh. Moderate exposure to sunlight can benefit your child’s eyes, but too much of it can do more harm than good. Be sure your child wears sunscreen and UV-blocking sunglasses when doing outdoor activities.  

At Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry, we understand vision problems get in the way of learning. It’s why we go above and beyond to provide reliable pediatric eye care services. We also specialize in cataract treatment and low-vision therapy. Call us at (703) 573-1200 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment. We serve patients in Falls Church, VA, and nearby areas.