5 Ways Parents Can Encourage Outdoor Play In Children To Prevent Myopia

Lead by Example: Parents are powerful role models for their children. By demonstrating a love for the outdoors and participating in outdoor activities themselves, parents can inspire their children to follow suit. Plan family outings to parks, nature reserves, or playgrounds, and engage in active play together. Whether it's hiking, biking, or playing sports, spending time outdoors as a family creates lasting memories while promoting physical activity and healthy vision habits. (Image source: getty images)

Designate Outdoor Playtime: Set aside dedicated time each day for outdoor play, rain or shine. Incorporate outdoor play into your child's daily routine, whether it's before or after school. during weekends or after dinner. Encourage unstructured play in natural environments. allowing children to explore, discover, and engage with their surroundings freely. Establishing a A consistent outdoor play schedule helps make it a priority and reinforces its importance in maintaining healthy eyesight. (Image source: getty images)

Create Outdoor Play Spaces: Design outdoor play spaces in your backyard or community that are conducive to active play and exploration. Install play equipment like swings, slides, and climbing. structures, or a sandbox to encourage physical activity and imaginative play. Incorporate natural elements such as trees, rocks, and plants to stimulate sensory experiences and foster a deeper connection with nature. A well-designed outdoor play area provides endless opportunities for adventure and discovery. (Image source: getty images)

Limit Screen Time: Set reasonable limits on screen time and encourage alternative activities. that promote outdoor play. Establish screen-free zones or times, such as during meals or before bedtime, to minimise sedentary behaviour and encourage active play. Encourage children to Choose outdoor activities like riding bikes, playing tag, or building forts instead of watching TV. or playing video games. By reducing screen time and prioritising outdoor play, parents can help mitigate the risk of myopia development in their children. (Image source: getty images)

Make Outdoor Play Fun and Exciting: Keep outdoor play engaging and enjoyable by providing a variety of activities and experiences. Organise scavenger hunts, nature walks, or treasure hunts. to spark curiosity and encourage exploration. Plan outdoor picnics, kite flying, or water play to add excitement and variety to outdoor playtime. By making outdoor play fun and stimulating, Parents can instill a lifelong love for the outdoors in their children while promoting healthy vision habits. (Image source: getty images)

Inputs By: Dr Aditi Sapovadia, Pediatric ophthal, squint and cataract consultat at Netradeep maxivision eye hospital, Rajkot (Image source: getty images)