Many parents have noticed their children holding books or gadgets very close to their faces while reading. According to a report from pafikutaikab.org at first glance, it may seem like a harmless habit — or perhaps a sign of deep concentration. However, eye specialists warn that consistently reading at a short distance can be an early sign of vision problems, particularly myopia, or nearsightedness.
Why Children Read Too Close
Children’s eyes are still developing, and their visual habits often reflect how they perceive the world. “If a child prefers to read or look at screens very closely, it might indicate that they can’t see objects clearly from a distance,” explains Dr. Angela Lim, a pediatric ophthalmologist at the Singapore Eye Institute.
According to Dr. Lim, some children naturally develop this habit without realizing it. They may sit too close to the television or bring a book inches away from their eyes because it feels more comfortable. However, when this behavior becomes consistent, parents should consider having their child’s eyes examined.
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The Rise of Myopia in Children
Myopia has become increasingly common among children worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that by 2050, half of the global population could be myopic. This rise is largely linked to modern lifestyles — particularly prolonged screen time, less outdoor activity, and frequent near work, such as reading or studying at close distances.
“When the eyes are forced to focus on near objects for long periods, they may gradually adapt by elongating,” says Dr. Lim. “This structural change causes light to focus in front of the retina instead of on it, resulting in blurry distance vision.”
Warning Signs to Watch For
Besides reading too close, parents should watch for other signs that may indicate vision issues, including:
- Squinting when looking at distant objects
- Rubbing eyes frequently
- Complaining about headaches or eye strain
- Avoiding outdoor activities or sports
If any of these symptoms appear, it’s important to schedule an eye examination. Early detection of vision problems allows doctors to prescribe glasses or implement strategies to slow myopia progression.
The Role of Outdoor Time
Studies show that spending at least two hours outdoors daily can significantly reduce the risk of developing myopia. Natural sunlight helps regulate dopamine levels in the retina, which in turn prevents the eye from growing too long.
“Encouraging kids to play outside is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to protect their vision,” Dr. Lim emphasizes. “It gives the eyes a chance to focus on distant objects, relaxing the muscles that are overused during close-up tasks.”
Building Healthy Reading Habits
Experts recommend maintaining a reading distance of about 30–40 centimeters (12–16 inches) from the eyes. Proper lighting, frequent breaks, and the 20-20-20 rule — taking a 20-second break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away — can also help prevent eye strain.
Parents should also monitor screen time. Tablets and smartphones often encourage closer viewing distances than books, increasing the strain on young eyes.
While reading is essential for learning, doing it too closely or for long periods can be a red flag for potential eye problems. By recognizing early signs, scheduling regular eye check-ups, and encouraging outdoor activities, parents can help ensure their children maintain healthy vision for life.
As Dr. Lim concludes, “Good reading habits don’t just shape the mind — they also protect the eyes.”
Source: Persatuan Ahli Farmasi Indonesia
