As a mom of two rambunctious boys  and an optometrist, I’m always looking for ways to protect my kids’ vision while making lasting family memories. We recently took a little trip up north to Carmel, and I wanted to share some highlights—not just because it was a great vacation, but because it reminded me just how important outdoor time is for kids’ eye health.

Let’s face it: screens are everywhere these days—phones, tablets, TVs. It’s easy to fall into the habit, especially on long car rides or lazy afternoons. But research continues to show that spending time outdoors can significantly reduce the risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness) in children. So on this trip, we made a bold decision:  no electronics.
 And honestly? The kids didn’t even miss them!
 

Hiking the Scenic Trails

One of our favorite activities was hiking the beautiful coastal trails near Carmel. We kept it light and fun—picking up sticks, spotting birds, and just soaking in the fresh ocean air. Even short hikes are a great way to get moving and give young eyes a much-needed break from close-up tasks like reading or screen time. Sunlight plays a big role in supporting healthy eye development, and just a couple of hours outdoors a day can help slow the progression of myopia.


Petting Zoo Adventures

We also stopped by a charming little petting zoo, and let me tell you—the boys were in heaven. Feeding goats, giggling at the alpaca’s funky haircut, and getting hands-on with animals was a huge hit. It was not only entertaining, but also educational and a great way to keep them active, curious, and screen-free while enjoying the benefits of being outdoors.


Poolside Fun (with Sunglasses!)

And of course, what’s a trip to Carmel without some water time? Whether we were relaxing at the hotel pool or playing in the sand at the beach,  sunglasses were non-negotiable. UV rays can cause long-term damage to the eyes—especially in children—so I made sure the whole family wore UV-protected sunglasses, even when it was cloudy. We also packed wide-brimmed hats and plenty of sunscreen to round out our sun protection checklist.

Parent Tips: Fun Outdoor Activities Without Screens

If you're looking to cut down on screen time and support your child’s eye health, here are a few simple, screen-free ideas that our family enjoyed on this trip:

• Nature scavenger hunts – The boys loved searching for seashells and cool rocks on the trail. You can create your own list for a local park or even your backyard.

• Tandem bike rides – We rented bikes for the whole family. Daddy did most of the pedaling (thanks, honey!), and the kids loved taking in all the sights.

• Beach or park picnics – Pack some snacks, roll out a blanket, and let the kids run wild on the sand or grass while you kick back and enjoy the moment.

Final Thoughts

Our Carmel getaway was such a refreshing reminder that the best memories don’t involve screens—they involve sunshine, laughter, and a bit of dirt on your shoes. As a mom, it made my heart happy to see my kids exploring and playing without a single device in sight. And as an optometrist, I knew we were doing something truly beneficial—not just for their vision, but for their overall mental well-being, too.

So the next time you’re planning a weekend outing or a family trip, I encourage you to  unplug and get outside. Your kids’ eyes—and your family—will thank you.

Here’s to healthy eyes and happy adventures!


— Dr. Julie Phan

Helping families see clearly—today and for a lifetime.