Tablets for school, laptops for homework, smartphones for fun, and TVs for downtime - screens are everywhere in children’s lives. While technology brings many benefits, many parents are understandably concerned about how increased screen time may be affecting their child’s eyes. From digital eye strain to changes in vision development, it’s important to understand the potential impacts and how to protect your child’s eye health.

How Screen Time Affects Children’s Eyes

Children’s eyes are still developing, which can make them more sensitive to prolonged screen use. Staring at screens for extended periods often leads to a combination of visual and physical symptoms known as digital eye strain.

Common signs include:

• Eye fatigue or discomfort

• Headaches

• Blurry or fluctuating vision

• Dry, irritated, or watery eyes

• Difficulty focusing after screen use

Unlike adults, children may not always recognize or communicate these symptoms. Instead, they might rub their eyes, squint, complain of headaches, or avoid reading and schoolwork.

Screen Time and Myopia Progression

One growing concern among eye care professionals is the link between excessive near work and the development or progression of myopia (nearsightedness). When children spend long periods focusing up close, their eyes may adapt in ways that increase the risk of distance vision becoming blurry.

This risk is amplified when screen time replaces outdoor play. Natural light and distance viewing outdoors play an important role in healthy visual development. Studies have shown that children who spend more time outside tend to have a lower risk of developing myopia.

Blue Light: What Parents Should Know

Screens emit blue light, which has raised concerns about eye comfort and sleep quality. While typical screen use is not believed to cause permanent eye damage, blue light can contribute to eye strain and disrupt sleep patterns - especially when screens are used in the evening. Children who use devices before bedtime may experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, which can affect overall health, mood, and academic performance.

Practical Ways to Protect Your Child’s Eyes

The good news is that simple habits can make a big difference in reducing screen-related eye issues.

• Encourage the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives eye muscles a much-needed break.

• Set screen time limits: Create clear boundaries for recreational screen use, especially during evenings and weekends.

• Prioritize outdoor play: Aim for at least one to two hours of outdoor activity daily when possible. This supports eye development and overall wellness.

• Improve screen ergonomics: Screens should be positioned slightly below eye level and at a comfortable distance. Good lighting helps reduce glare and eye strain.

Why Regular Eye Exams Are Essential

Even with healthy screen habits, regular comprehensive eye exams are essential. Children’s vision can change quickly, and many vision problems don’t have obvious symptoms. An eye exam can detect issues such as focusing problems, eye coordination difficulties, and early signs of myopia progression. Routine exams also allow your eye doctor to provide personalized guidance on screen use, visual ergonomics, and whether specialized lenses or treatments may be beneficial for your child.

Take the First Step Toward Healthier Vision

Screens are a part of modern childhood, but they don’t have to compromise your child’s eye health. By understanding the effects of screen time, encouraging healthy habits, and scheduling regular eye exams, you can help protect your child’s vision now and for the future.

Schedule your child’s eye exam with The Eye Man to ensure their eyes are healthy, comfortable, and developing properly in a digital world. Visit our office in New York, New York, or call (212) 873-4114 to book an appointment today.