ASK THE CPCMG PEDIATRICIAN: Can my child develop eye issues from too much screen time?

From online learning and video games to social media and entertainment, screen time has become an integral part of our children’s lives. Parents need to recognize that prolonged screen exposure can be a source of eye strain and discomfort for kids.

By being proactive and teaching your children healthy screen habits, parents can help ensure their child’s eyes stay healthy, their vision remains strong, and they can enjoy digital technology without the discomfort of eye strain.

What is eye strain?
Eye strain can occur when the eyes are exposed to digital screens for extended periods. This can lead to discomfort and a range of symptoms, including:
• Dry or irritated eyes
• Headaches
• Blurred vision
• Neck, back, or shoulder pain
• Eye fatigue

Are kids more susceptible to eye strain?
Children’s eyes are still developing, and they often don’t blink as frequently as adults, leading to reduced moisture and increased risk of dryness and irritation. Kids also tend to hold devices like smartphones or tablets closer to their faces than adults, which can put extra strain on their eyes. The combination of these factors, along with longer periods of screen time, makes kids more susceptible to eye strain.

How much screen time is appropriate for my child?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the following guidelines for screen time:
Under 18 months: minimize or avoid screen time.
18-24 months: introduce digital media with high-quality programming and watch with your child to help them understand what they are seeing.
2-5 years: limit screen time to one hour per day of high-quality programming and watch with your child.
6 and older: set limits on both time and types of media use, ensuring it doesn’t interfere with sleep, physical activity, and other essential activities.
Teens: establish consistent limits on screen time and types of media, and encourage healthy habits such as regular sleep, physical activity, and time away from devices.

Even with these guidelines, many children will exceed these recommendations. Parents should actively monitor their children’s screen time and encourage healthy habits.

Tips to Reduce Eye Strain and Protect Your Child’s Vision
1. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Encourage your child to take breaks every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This simple habit can help reduce eye strain and improve focus.
2. Adjust screen settings: Lower the brightness of screens and increase the text size to make reading more comfortable. Check if your devices has a “blue light filter” option.
3. Get in the right viewing position: Ensure that your child’s screen is positioned at eye level to avoid straining their neck. Avoid being hunched over a digital device for a long period of time.
4. Set a schedule for screen time breaks: Take your child away from screens to engage in other activities like reading a physical book, drawing, or going outside to play.
5. Limit screen time before bed: Aim to turn off screens at least an hour before bedtime to help your child wind down and promote restful sleep. The blue light emitted by digital devices can interfere with sleep patterns.
6. Eye Exams: Regular eye exams are crucial for identifying vision problems early. If you notice your child complaining of headaches, squinting, or having difficulty focusing, it may be time for an eye exam.

Don’t forget to reach out to your CPCMG pediatrician if you have questions about eye strain.