July Is Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month: Time to See (and Play) Outdoors!

July isn’t just summer vacation—it’s also  Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month! At WashU Medicine’s John F. Hardesty, MD, Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, we’re highlighting the crucial role of sunshine and outdoor play in promoting healthy vision, particularly in preventing nearsightedness (myopia). Here’s a deep dive into the latest insights from the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), backed by peer-reviewed science.

Why Outdoor Time Matters

The AAO recently emphasized that daily exposure to natural light can substantially reduce the risk of childhood myopia:

Daylight acts as a natural brake on elongating eyes. Sunshine seems to encourage healthy eye growth and reduce the chance of kids becoming nearsighted American Academy of Ophthalmology.

What the Science Shows

Several high-quality studies support this approach:

Population studies show that children spending ≥2 hours outdoors daily are significantly less likely to develop myopia.
Atropine + outdoor time interventions reduced myopia onset in clinical trials (e.g., 0.01–0.05% low-dose atropine + ≥2 hours/day in sunlight)
No downside—natural light supports overall well-being (vitamin D, mood, activity), unlike screen time or indoor eye strain.

Real-World Tips for Families

Shoot for at least 60–120 min/day outside, especially during late morning to mid-afternoon when ambient light is strongest.
Schedule outdoor homework breaks, walks, or bike rides instead of indoor screen sessions.
Provide sun-protection gear—hats, sunglasses, and UV-protective lenses—to keep kids both safe and stuck outside!

“Getting kids outdoors isn’t just good for their mental and physical well being, it may also help prevent the development of myopia (nearsightedness).”
Mark Rallo, OD

What Parents Should Know

Key Insight	What To Do
Outdoor time slows myopia	Aim for 1–2 hrs/day outside
Myopia is rising worldwide	Early prevention protects vision health
Combine strategies for best effect	Outdoor time + low-dose atropine when needed

Take Action

Plan outdoor family days—park outings, nature walks, sidewalk art.
Encourage outdoor breaks during virtual school or computer time.
Schedule annual pediatric eye exams to monitor vision growth and intervene early.

This Children’s Eye Health & Safety Month let’s champion sunshine and fresh air—not just for summer fun, but for our kids’ future vision. Outdoor playtime is simple, safe, and scientifically proven to protect healthy eyesight.

If you have questions about your child’s vision or would like to schedule a comprehensive eye exam, our pediatric optometrists at WashU Medicine are here to help. Early detection and personalized care can make a lasting difference—book an appointment today to give your child the clearest start possible.