In today’s digital age, children are spending more time in front of screens than ever before. From online learning to gaming and social media, screen time is a significant part of their daily lives. While technology offers many benefits, prolonged screen exposure can take a toll on your child’s eyes. At Optical Masters, we want to help parents understand the effects of screen time on their children’s vision and provide tips to keep their eyes healthy.

Understanding the Effects of Screen Time on Children’s Eyes

Excessive screen time can lead to a variety of eye-related issues. Here are some of the most common concerns:
 

• Digital Eye Strain: Staring at screens for extended periods can cause digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and difficulty focusing on the screen.
   

• Myopia Progression: Studies show a link between excessive near-work activities, such as screen time, and an increased risk of myopia (nearsightedness). The more time children spend looking at screens up close, the higher their risk of developing or worsening myopia.
   

• Blue Light Exposure: Digital devices emit blue light, which can disrupt sleep patterns and may contribute to retinal damage over time. While the long-term effects of blue light are still being studied, limiting exposure is a precaution worth taking.
   

• Reduced Outdoor Time: Children who spend more time on screens often have less outdoor playtime. Natural light and outdoor activities are essential for healthy vision development and may help slow myopia progression.

Signs That Your Child’s Eyes May Be Affected

Parents should watch for signs that their child’s screen time is impacting their vision, such as:
 

• Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
   

• Complaints of headaches or eye discomfort
   

• Squinting or holding screens too close
   

• Difficulty concentrating during or after screen use
   

• Avoiding screens altogether, which may indicate discomfort

Tips to Protect Your Child’s Eyes from Screen Time

Protecting your child’s vision doesn’t mean eliminating screen time entirely. Here are some practical ways to reduce the impact of screens on their eyes:
 

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Encourage your child to take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and look at something 20 feet away. This helps reduce eye strain.

2. Encourage Outdoor Play: Balancing screen time with outdoor activities helps promote healthy eye development and provides much-needed exposure to natural light.

3. Adjust Screen Settings: Reduce brightness, increase text size, and use blue light filters or night mode on devices to ease eye strain.

4. Maintain Proper Posture: Ensure your child’s screen is at eye level and about 18–24 inches away from their face to promote good posture and reduce eye strain.

Why Regular Eye Care is Essential

At Optical Masters, we specialize in providing comprehensive eye care for children. During an eye exam, we can evaluate your child’s vision, screen for common issues caused by screen time, and recommend solutions like blue light-blocking glasses if needed.

Keep Your Child’s Vision Healthy

As technology continues to play a central role in our lives, it’s essential to stay proactive about protecting your child’s eyes. By encouraging healthy screen habits and scheduling regular eye exams, you can ensure your child’s vision remains clear and comfortable.

If you’re concerned about how screen time may be affecting your child’s vision, schedule an eye exam with Optical Masters. Visit our locations in Denver, Colorado, or call (720) 807-7300 or (720) 807-7600 to book an appointment today.