The Impact of Screen Time on Children's Eye Health: A Guide for Parents

As summer winds down and school approaches, many parents are focused on backpacks, supplies, and schedules. But there’s one more thing to add to your back-to-school checklist: your child’s screen time habits—and how they may be affecting their eyes.

The Rise of Digital Eye Strain in Kids

With the increasing integration of technology in education and daily life, children are spending more time than ever in front of screens—whether for schoolwork, gaming, or social connection. While digital devices offer incredible learning opportunities, excessive screen time can significantly affect your child’s eye health.

According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), children who spend two or more continuous hours on digital devices daily are at increased risk for digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome.

Symptoms of digital eye strain include:

• Dry, irritated, or red eyes
• Blurred or double vision
• Eye fatigue
• Headaches
• Neck and shoulder discomfort
• Difficulty focusing or concentrating

Why Children Are Especially Vulnerable

Children are particularly vulnerable because their eyes are still developing, and they may not recognize or communicate discomfort. Additionally, kids often hold screens closer to their eyes than adults do, which forces their visual system to work even harder to maintain focus.

Staring at screens for long periods also reduces blinking, which dries out the eyes and causes irritation. These symptoms may be temporary, but the longer a child spends on screens, the longer it can take for their eyes to recover.

What Parents Can Do

Here are a few simple ways to protect your child’s eyes as they head back to school:

1. Schedule a Back-to-School Eye Exam: A comprehensive eye exam can detect vision issues that may be contributing to digital eye strain or learning difficulties.
2. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to give their eyes a break.
3. Optimize Screen Setup: Teach your child to hold screens at arm’s length and slightly below eye level. Adjust screen brightness to match room lighting and reduce glare.
4. Promote Healthy Habits: Encourage regular breaks, good posture, and screen-free time throughout the day.
5. Promote Outdoor Play: Natural light and distance viewing help relax the eyes and reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness).
6. Reduce Screen Time: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:

• Children under 2: Avoid screen time except for video chatting.
• Ages 2 to 5: Limit recreational screen time to 1 hour per day.
• Older children: Set consistent limits, prioritize school work, and avoid screens at least 1 hour before bedtime.

Set Your Child Up for Success

Healthy vision is essential for learning, reading, and classroom participation. While technology is a vital part of modern education and entertainment, moderation is key.

At Horizon Eye Care & Optical, we’re here to help your child start the school year with clear, comfortable vision.

Book your child’s back-to-school eye exam today and give them the visual tools they need to thrive.