How to Slow Myopia Progression in Children: Options and Follow-Up
Introduction
Myopia (nearsightedness) is becoming increasingly common, especially among children and young adults. A changing prescription can reflect eye growth, but the amount and timing vary between children. Fortunately, there are ways to slow down its progression. This blog will discuss scientifically backed methods to help manage myopia effectively.
Causes of Myopia Progression
Genetics – Family history increases the likelihood of developing myopia, but it cannot predict an individual child’s progression rate.
Prolonged Near Work – Extended screen time or reading at a close distance can contribute to worsening myopia.
Lack of Outdoor Activities – Less outdoor time is associated with a greater chance of developing myopia; evidence for slowing established myopia is less consistent.
Age and Previous Change – Earlier onset and the measured pattern of change help guide follow-up. Eye strain alone does not prove eye growth.
Effective Ways to Slow Down Myopia Progression
1. Spend More Time Outdoors
Aim for regular outdoor activity, often around two hours daily when feasible, with appropriate sun protection. Evidence is stronger for delaying myopia onset than for treating established myopia. Outdoor time complements, rather than replaces, prescribed treatment. Never look directly at the sun.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
To prevent eye strain from excessive screen use, follow this simple rule:
Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This is a comfort reminder, not an established myopia-control treatment.
3. Use Myopia Control Lenses
Specific myopia-control spectacle designs and certain soft contact lenses can slow progression in suitable children. Ordinary single-vision glasses correct blur but are not equivalent to these designs. Orthokeratology uses specially fitted overnight lenses to temporarily reshape the cornea and can slow eye elongation; it requires careful hygiene and monitoring because corneal infection is a risk.
4. Consider Atropine Eye Drops
Atropine may be offered by an eye doctor, but effectiveness varies with concentration, formulation and study population. A U.S. randomized trial found that 0.01% atropine did not outperform placebo; this does not settle the evidence for every concentration. Discuss benefits, light sensitivity, near blur, allergy, monitoring and possible rebound after stopping. Do not choose a concentration or start drops yourself.
5. Maintain a Healthy Viewing Distance
Keep digital screens at least 30-40 cm (12-16 inches) away from your eyes.
Avoid reading while lying down.
Ensure proper lighting when reading or working on a screen.
6. Get Regular Eye Exams
Follow-up should compare refraction over time and, where available, axial length. Cycloplegic refraction may be needed to reduce focusing-related measurement error. The clinician sets the interval, often with closer review during active treatment, and checks safety as well as effectiveness.
Questions for the next appointment
- How much has each eye changed, and over what interval?
- Were the measurements made with comparable methods?
- Which option fits the child’s age, eye findings and ability to follow care instructions?
- What findings would lead us to change or stop treatment?
Can weaker glasses slow myopia?
Intentionally undercorrecting is not a recommended myopia-control strategy. Use the prescribed correction and discuss changes instead of reducing lens strength yourself.
For risk factors, see why myopia progresses at different rates. For daily habits, see eye-friendly reading habits for children.
Sources and review
Educational information reviewed October 27, 2026. Individual diagnosis and treatment require an eye examination.