Too Much Screen Time? Their Eyes Might Be Telling You
Between online learning, video games, and mobile entertainment, children are spending more time on screens than ever before. But while parents often think of digital eye strain as an adult issue, kids are just as vulnerable—if not more so.At Wildwood Eye Care, we’re seeing a growing number of children with symptoms linked to excessive screen exposure. If your child complains of tired eyes, struggles to concentrate, or shows signs of discomfort during screen use, it could be digital eye strain.
Why Kids Are More Susceptible
Children’s eyes are still developing and don’t have the same ability as adults’ eyes to filter blue light or manage extended near tasks. They also tend to hold screens closer to their faces, blink less frequently, and rarely recognize when their vision is strained.Key risk factors include:
Hours of close-up screen use without breaks
Poor lighting or glare
Small-screen devices like tablets or smartphones
Limited outdoor time
Common Signs of Digital Eye Strain in Children
Unlike adults, kids may not communicate their discomfort clearly—so it’s important to watch for signs like:Squinting or rubbing the eyes frequently
Headaches, especially around the forehead or eyes
Difficulty focusing or sitting still during screen time
Complaints of blurry vision or tired eyes
Holding screens very close to the face
Red, watery, or dry eyes
Irritability or trouble concentrating after extended device use
Simple Ways to Protect Their Eyes
You don’t need to ban screens—but setting smart habits can make a big difference in their comfort and visual development:
1. Use the 20-20-20 Rule
Teach your child to take a break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Make it a game or use timers to help them remember.
2. Adjust Device Settings
Increase text size and brightness to reduce squinting. Use blue light filters—especially in the evening.
3. Encourage Outdoor Time
Outdoor play helps reduce myopia risk and gives eyes a break from near focus.
4. Blink More
Kids blink less when staring at screens, which dries out their eyes. Remind them to blink often or use artificial tears if recommended.
5. Create a Screen-Smart Space
Set up study and play areas with proper lighting, screen distance (about an arm’s length away), and ergonomics.
Why an Eye Exam Matters—Even If They’re Not Complaining
School vision screenings miss many functional and focusing issues. A **comprehensive pediatric eye exam** at Wildwood Eye Care can detect problems early—even before your child realizes they’re struggling.We tailor our exams to your child’s needs, screen habits, and learning environment, and we offer solutions such as:
- Blue light–filtering lenses
- Anti-fatigue glasses for near tasks
- Myopia control strategies if nearsightedness is progressing
- Eye exercises for focus and tracking
Help Your Child Thrive—On and Off the Screen
Clear, comfortable vision is key to learning, playing, and staying focused. Digital eye strain doesn’t have to slow your child down.Book a pediatric eye exam at Wildwood Eye Care today—and let’s help your child see their best in a screen-filled world.