When COVID hit in 2020, few could predict the outcomes that pandemic would have on the general population, not to mention the effect the lockdowns had on children’s eyesight from hours of on-line computer learning, cell phones, and tablet usage — all of which led to a marked increase in myopia rates worldwide.

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is when near-objects are clear, but objects in the distance become blurry. It is typically associated with children in the 8-12 age group because their eyes are still in the growth stage, according to the American Optometric Association.

Alarmingly, pre-pandemic studies showed the highest myopia rate measured among six-year-old children was 5.7%. In June 2020, after just five months of home confinement, researchers measured children’s eyesight in that age group and found that the rate shot up to 21.5%.

In the years since COVID hit, All About Eyes began offering MiSight® contact lenses, for children ages 8-12. We recommended (and continue to recommend) the 20-20-20 rule, where for every 20 minutes of screen time, to take 20 seconds to look at something 20 feet away. Spending time outside playing also helps to combat digital eye strain and strengthen distance vision.

The good news is that last month (January 2025), the National Eye Institute announced the results of their most recent study showing that not only have these measures — and contact lenses in particular — slowed myopia progression, but that they have lasting effects into later teen years as well. Getting comprehensive eye exams, stretching your distance vision, and using lenses can go a long way toward better vision outcomes for kids!