Myopia Control Resource Page
Understanding Childhood Myopia
Myopia, or short-sightedness, is becoming increasingly common in children around the world. While glasses can correct blurred distance vision, they do not slow the progression of myopia.
As myopia increases, so does the lifetime risk of eye diseases such as retinal detachment, glaucoma and myopic macular degeneration.
The good news is that there are now evidence-based treatments that can help slow the progression of myopia in many children. This Resource Centre explains the causes of myopia, the latest treatment options and practical advice for parents who want to protect their child's vision.
Treat the cause, not just the prescription.
Raising a Child in the Digital Age
As an eye specialist, I understand the science behind myopia. As a mother, I understand the realities of raising a child surrounded by screens.
My son is now 12 years old and has maintained excellent eyesight. While every child is different, I believe that good visual habits begin at home. Encouraging children to spend more time outdoors, take regular breaks from near work and develop healthy screen habits is often more effective than simply imposing rules.
One of the most rewarding parts of my work is helping parents find practical ways to motivate children—not through fear, but through understanding, encouragement and routines that work for each family.-Dr Cheryl Lee
My Favourite Tips
📚 Replace Some Screen Time with Audiobooks
Children love stories.
Instead of watching another YouTube video or playing another game, try listening to an audiobook while:
drawing
colouring
building Lego
travelling in the car
before bedtime
Audiobooks encourage imagination while giving the eyes a break from continuous screen use.
Explore my favourite family audiobooks which I have curated and tried out.
🌳 Make Outdoor Time an Adventure
Instead of saying
Go outside.
Try saying
Let's go on an adventure.
Children rarely enjoy being told to exercise.
They love exploring.
Ideas:
Nature walks
Treasure hunts
Cycling
Scooter rides
Photography walks
Picnics
👨👩👦 Be a Role Model
Children copy what parents do.
If parents spend every evening on their phones, children will naturally do the same.
Healthy screen habits begin with the whole family.
🎮 Don't Ban Screens
Screens are part of modern life.
The goal is not to eliminate them. I like replacing /substituting. Not just taking things away
The goal is to create a healthy balance between near work, outdoor activity, reading and play.
Parents usually find this advice refreshing because it feels realistic.
📖 Reading Isn't the Enemy
But it is limited to 20 minutes and then a break. I also have tips on how to manage this. But I would tailor it to your child when they tell me what they read et c
⏰ Build Habits Instead of Rules
Rather than constantly reminding children to stop using screens, create routines that become automatic.
Examples include:
Outdoor play after school.
No screens during meals.
Audiobooks before bedtime.
Reading followed by outdoor play.
Children respond much better to routines than repeated reminders.
Channel News Asia Interview on Health Matters with Daniel Martin on myopia control, Dry eyes after Lasik and other eye health topics.
