With the rise of digital devices and screens, children today are spending more time in front of screens than ever before. From televisions, phones, computers, and tablets, the use of screens has become an integral part of everyday life.

While technology undoubtedly brings many benefits, it also has its downsides. One of them is the increased risk of eye strain and vision loss in children due to screens.

What is Eye Strain?

Eye strain, also known as digital eye strain or computer vision syndrome, is a condition that occurs when the eyes are subjected to extended periods of screen time.

It is caused by the continuous focusing of the eyes on a screen, which can lead to fatigue, dryness, and discomfort. Symptoms of eye strain include headaches, blurred vision, neck and shoulder pain, and even double vision.

Impact of Screen Time on Vision

The American Optometric Association states that prolonged screen time can lead to changes in the visual system, such as myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and even amblyopia (lazy eye).

In children, excessive screen time can affect their visual development, leading to irreversible damage to vision.

A study conducted by the University of California, Berkeley, found that children who spend more than two hours a day staring at screens are more likely to experience decreased distance vision.

The longer a child spends in front of a screen, the greater the risk of developing nearsightedness. Research shows that screen time exposure reduces outdoor time, which is linked to eye health and myopia control in children.

Ways to Reduce Eye Strain

There are several ways that you can reduce the risk of eye strain in children due to screens.

Take Frequent Breaks

To prevent eye strain, experts recommend taking frequent breaks when using screens. Children should take a break at least every 20 minutes and focus on something that is at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

This will help relax the eyes and prevent muscle strain.

Provide Sufficient Lighting

Inadequate lighting can cause eye strain, so it is important to ensure that there is adequate lighting when using screens. Natural light is best, but if that is not possible, use a lamp that provides sufficient light when working on the screen.

Use Proper Posture

Children should maintain proper posture when using screens. They should sit with their backs straight, their feet on the ground, and their arms at a comfortable height.

The screen should be at eye level so that children are not straining their necks to look at the screen.

Blink Frequently

When staring at a screen, children tend to blink less frequently, which can lead to dry, irritated eyes. To prevent this, encourage your child to blink frequently when using screens. This will help keep the eyes moist and prevent dryness.

Conclusion

Evidence suggests that excessive screen time can lead to eye strain and vision loss in children.

There are several things that parents can do to reduce the risk of eye strain in children, including taking frequent breaks, using proper lighting, maintaining proper posture, and blinking frequently. By adopting these measures, parents can help ensure that their children’s eyes are protected from the harmful effects of screen time.