In an increasingly digital world, children spend more time on screens than ever before. But how does this affect their vision?
Learn about digital eye strain, its impact on young eyes, and how to protect your child’s sight with Aaron Henry Optometry.
Are Screens Affecting Your Child’s Eyes?
Between online learning, video games, and social media, children’s screen time has skyrocketed. While digital devices can be great tools for education and entertainment, they also come with risks—one of the biggest being digital eye strain.
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, happens when the eyes become fatigued from prolonged screen use. Symptoms can include:
- Blurry vision
- Dry, irritated eyes
- Headaches
- Difficulty focusing
- Increased light sensitivity
Children may not always recognize these symptoms or communicate them clearly. Instead, you might notice them rubbing their eyes more often, struggling with concentration, or complaining about tiredness after using a device.
Why Are Children More at Risk for Vision Problems?
Children’s eyes are still developing, making them more sensitive to digital screens. Unlike adults, kids tend to blink less while focusing on screens, which can lead to dry eyes and discomfort.
Other factors that contribute to digital eye strain in children include:
- Closer screen distances – Kids hold screens closer to their faces, making their eyes work harder.
- Longer screen time – Without breaks, their eyes don’t get enough time to rest.
- Blue light exposure – Digital devices emit blue light, which can disrupt sleep and contribute to eye fatigue.
With digital learning and entertainment becoming a part of daily life, managing screen use is crucial to maintaining eye health.
How to Protect Your Child’s Eyes from Digital Strain
While digital screens are a part of modern life, there are simple ways to reduce their impact on your child’s vision. Here are some practical strategies to help keep young eyes comfortable and healthy:
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
Encourage your child to take a break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This helps relax their eye muscles and reduces strain.
2. Adjust Screen Time & Encourage Outdoor Play
While some screen use is necessary, balancing it with outdoor activities is key. Spending time outside has been shown to help with eye development and reduce the risk of myopia (short-sightedness).
3. Maintain Proper Screen Distance
Teach your child to hold screens at arm’s length instead of too close to their eyes. This reduces the effort their eyes need to focus.
4. Reduce Blue Light Exposure, Especially at Night
Blue light from screens can interfere with sleep patterns. Try to limit screen use at least an hour before bedtime and consider using blue light filters on devices.
5. Adjust Screen Brightness and Room Lighting
Avoid using screens in dark rooms, as the contrast between the bright screen and dim surroundings can increase eye strain. Adjusting screen brightness to match room lighting can also help.
6. Keep Their Eyes Hydrated
Blinking keeps eyes moist, but kids tend to blink less when using screens. Remind them to blink often and, if necessary, use lubricating eye drops to prevent dryness.
When your Child Should Visit an Optometrist
If your child frequently complains about sore eyes, blurry vision, or headaches, it might be time for an eye exam. Regular eye checks help detect any underlying vision problems early and ensure they have the right support for healthy eyesight.
At Aaron Henry Optometry in Muswellbrook, we offer comprehensive eye exams tailored to children’s needs. Whether it’s managing digital eye strain or checking for vision changes, we’re here to help.
Looking after your child’s vision today can help protect their eyesight for the future. Book an appointment with us to discuss any concerns about digital eye strain and find the best solutions for your child’s eye health.