Services / Paediatric Ophthalmology
Clearer vision for learning, play and development
Childhood Myopia, Hyperopia and Astigmatism
Refractive errors — where the shape of the eye prevents light from focusing precisely on the retina — are the most common reason children need glasses. Understanding the different types can help parents know what to expect.
At a glance
What parents should know
- Children may not realise their vision is blurred
- Myopia often progresses through childhood and adolescence
- Myopia control can include special lenses, contacts, atropine and outdoor time
The three main types
Myopia (short-sightedness) — distant objects appear blurry while close objects stay clear. Myopia usually appears in school-age children and tends to progress through childhood and adolescence as the eye grows.
Hyperopia (long-sightedness) — a small amount is normal in young children and often resolves on its own. Higher degrees can cause blurred near vision, eye strain, or contribute to a squint (accommodative esotropia).
Astigmatism — the front surface of the eye is shaped more like a rugby ball than a soccer ball, causing blurring at all distances. It often occurs alongside myopia or hyperopia and can be present from birth.
Signs your child may have a refractive error
Children rarely say “I can’t see well” — they simply assume everyone sees the way they do. Instead, look for:
- Sitting close to the TV or holding books close to the face
- Squinting to see the board at school
- Frequent eye rubbing or headaches
- Avoiding reading or close work
- Declining academic performance or reduced interest in schoolwork
Why myopia in children deserves particular attention
Rates of childhood myopia have risen significantly worldwide, linked to increased near work and reduced time outdoors. Beyond needing stronger glasses over time, higher levels of myopia in adulthood carry an increased lifelong risk of retinal detachment, myopic macular degeneration and glaucoma later in life — which is why slowing its progression in childhood is now a major focus in paediatric eye care.
Myopia control options
Several evidence-based approaches can slow the rate at which myopia worsens in children, including:
- Specially designed spectacle lenses
- Certain contact lens options
- Low-dose atropine eye drops
- Increased time spent outdoors
The right approach depends on your child’s age, prescription and lifestyle, and is best discussed individually.
Getting it checked
Because children adapt so well to blurry vision, regular eye checks — not just relying on school screening — are the best way to catch refractive errors early, particularly if there’s a family history of high prescriptions.
Bright Sight Eye Specialists can assess your child’s vision and discuss the most suitable glasses or myopia management plan.
Specialist children’s eye care
Concerned about your child’s eyes?
Dr Kriti Agnihotri provides family-centred paediatric ophthalmology care at Bright Sight Eye Specialists in Randwick.
The key message
Early, appropriate assessment supports better outcomes
Regular eye checks can detect refractive errors before they begin to affect school, reading or confidence—and allow timely discussion of myopia control.
Continue learning
Related children’s eye guides
Book a paediatric eye consultation
For specialist children’s eye care in Randwick, contact Bright Sight Eye Specialists to arrange an appointment.
This information is general and does not replace an individual medical assessment.