The Role of Genetics in Vision.

Urband Creative
May 16
2 min read

Vision isn’t just shaped by how much time we spend on screens or how often we play outside. A huge part of our eyesight is written in our DNA.

If you're a parent wearing glasses—or if nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism runs in your family—chances are, your child might inherit those same traits.

Let’s explore how genetics plays a role in your child’s vision and what steps you can take to support healthy eyesight from the start.

Is Vision Really Hereditary?

Yes—vision problems often run in families. Children are more likely to develop vision issues if one or both parents have them.

Here’s a quick look at some common hereditary eye conditions:

Myopia (Nearsightedness): The most common genetic vision condition in kids today.
Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Often inherited and may be noticeable in early childhood.
Astigmatism: Irregular curvature of the eye, which typically runs in families.
Colour Blindness: A genetic condition more common in boys, usually passed from mother to son.
Lazy Eye (Amblyopia): Can develop when vision problems are not corrected early, especially in children with a family history.

Nature vs Nurture: Genetics Aren’t the Whole Story

While genetics sets the stage, environmental factors still play a huge role.

For example:

A child may inherit a risk for myopia, but too much time indoors or on screens can accelerate it.
A child with a genetic predisposition to eye strain may have worse symptoms if they don’t wear properly fitted glasses.

This is why early eye care matters—you can’t control your child’s genes, but you can give them the tools to manage and protect their vision.

What Can Parents Do?

Here’s how you can support your child’s vision, especially if vision problems run in your family:

1. Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Children should have their first eye exam by age 3–5, or earlier if there’s a family history of eye conditions. The earlier problems are caught, the easier they are to treat.

2. Watch for Warning Signs

Keep an eye out for:

Squinting or covering one eye
Sitting too close to the TV
Complaining of headaches or eye strain
Avoiding reading or near work

3. Encourage Outdoor Play

Studies show that 2+ hours of outdoor time per day can help slow the progression of myopia.

4. Choose the Right Eyewear

Frames that don’t fit properly can make vision worse. At Eyelet, our frames are:

Balanced and stable (so lenses stay properly aligned)
Lightweight and flexible (so kids want to wear them)
Durable (so you don’t need to replace them every few months)

Wearing the right glasses can help reduce eye strain, encourage proper posture, and support healthy development, especially in children with inherited vision concerns.

Genetics Aren’t Destiny—They’re a Starting Point

While your child may inherit certain vision traits, there’s so much you can do to support healthy eyesight. With regular exams, the right lifestyle, and properly fitted eyewear, you can help your child see clearly, comfortably, and confidently.

Ready to Support Your Child’s Vision?

Explore Eyelet’s collection of kid-first, parent-approved eyewear—designed to grow with them, move with them, and protect their vision at every stage. Interested? Check out our Product Page.

Want to explore more eye care facts? Read our latest blogs on our website!