How Screen Time Impacts Kids’ Eyes—and Practical Ways to Protect Them

The Hidden Dangers of Screen Time on Kids’ Eyes: How to Protect Them

As a parent, it’s natural to be concerned about your child’s eye health. With the increasing use of digital devices among kids, it’s essential to understand how screen time affects their vision and what you can do to safeguard their eyesight.

The Impact of Screen Time on Kids’ Eyes

Prolonged exposure to screens has been linked to a range of eye problems in children, including myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and eye strain. A study published in the Journal of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus found that kids who spent more time on digital devices were at a higher risk of developing myopia by age 15 (1).

Why Screen Time is Bad for Kids’ Eyes

So, what exactly happens when your child spends too much time staring at screens? Here are some reasons why screen time can be detrimental to their eye health:

* Blue light emission: Digital devices emit blue light, a high-energy visible (HEV) light that can cause digital eye strain and potentially contribute to myopia.

* Dry eyes: Staring at screens for extended periods can reduce tear production, leading to dry, irritated eyes.

* Eye fatigue: Constantly focusing on digital content can lead to eye strain, headaches, and blurred vision.

Practical Ways to Protect Your Child’s Eyes

While it may be impossible to completely eliminate screen time from your child’s daily routine, there are steps you can take to reduce the risks associated with prolonged exposure:

1. Establish a balanced screen time routine: Set limits on screen time, ensuring that other activities like reading, exercise, and socializing are prioritized.

2. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Encourage your child to look away from screens every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

3. Encourage outdoor play: Regular outdoor activities can help reduce screen time and promote eye health.

Expert Eye Care in Okotoks

At Fantastic Glasses Okotoks, our experienced optometrists are dedicated to providing top-notch eye care services for children and adults alike. Our comprehensive eye exams include a thorough assessment of your child’s vision, including any potential issues related to screen time.

Additional Tips for Protecting Your Child’s Eyes

* Ensure proper lighting: Ensure the room is well-lit and free from glare when using digital devices.

* Adjust display settings: Lower the brightness and adjust the color temperature of screens to reduce blue light emission.

* Get regular eye exams: Regular check-ups with our optometrists can help identify any potential issues early on.

References and Further Reading

For more information on how to protect your child’s eyes, visit:

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Sources:

(1) Sheppard, A. L., & Wolffsohn, J. S. (2018). Digital device use and myopia in children: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, 22(3), e36-e42.

This blog post provides helpful information on how to protect kids’ eyes from screen time risks.

References and Further Reading

https://fantasticglasses.ca