Kids’ Vision & Screen Time: What Every Parent Should Know

Screens are everywhere - tablets for school, laptops for homework, phones for entertainment, and gaming systems for fun. While technology plays an important role in learning and connection, prolonged screen time can have real effects on children’s vision. Understanding how screens impact young eyes can help protect your child’s sight now and in the future.

How Screen Time Affects Children’s Eyes

Children’s visual systems are still developing, making them especially sensitive to extended near work and digital device use. When kids spend long hours focusing on screens, their eyes are working harder than intended, often without enough breaks.

Digital Eye Strain in Kids

Digital eye strain (sometimes called computer vision syndrome) is increasingly common in children. Symptoms may include:

• Tired or sore eyes
• Headaches, especially after screen use
• Blurred or fluctuating vision
• Dry, irritated, or watery eyes
• Difficulty concentrating on reading or schoolwork

Kids may not always know how to describe these symptoms, so changes in behavior—like avoiding reading, rubbing their eyes, or complaining of headaches—can be important warning signs.

The Link Between Screen Time and Myopia

Myopia (nearsightedness) is becoming more common in children worldwide, and excessive screen time is a contributing factor. Long periods of close-up focus, combined with less time spent outdoors, can increase the risk of myopia developing earlier and progressing more quickly. If left unmanaged, progressive myopia can raise the risk of future eye health problems, including retinal issues and other vision complications later in life.

Healthy Screen Time Habits for Children

Parents don’t need to eliminate screens entirely - but balance is key. Encouraging healthy habits can reduce eye strain and support better visual development.

Helpful guidelines include:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds
• Limit recreational screen time: Especially outside of schoolwork
• Encourage outdoor play: Spending time outdoors has been shown to help reduce the risk of myopia
• Maintain proper screen distance: Screens should be at arm’s length and slightly below eye level
• Ensure good lighting: Avoid glare and overly bright or dim environments

Building these habits early can make a lasting difference.

Myopia Management: Why Early Action Matters

If a child is developing myopia, early intervention is essential. Modern myopia management options can help slow progression and protect long-term eye health. These may include:

• Specialized contact lenses or glasses
• Atropine eye drops (in appropriate cases)
• Lifestyle recommendations tailored to your child’s visual needs

Early detection allows our eye doctors s to customize a plan that supports both clear vision and healthy eye development.

The Importance of Regular Pediatric Eye Exams

Routine pediatric eye exams are one of the most important tools for protecting your child’s vision. Even if a child doesn’t complain of vision problems, issues like eye strain, focusing difficulties, or early myopia may not be obvious without a comprehensive exam.

Regular exams can:

• Detect vision problems early
• Monitor eye development and screen-related strain
• Identify myopia and track its progression
• Ensure your child has the correct prescription for school and daily activities

Early care helps prevent small issues from becoming bigger challenges.

Schedule Your Child’s Eye Exam Today

Screens are part of modern childhood, but they don’t have to come at the expense of healthy vision. By understanding the effects of prolonged screen time, encouraging smart habits, and scheduling regular eye exams, parents can play a powerful role in protecting their children’s eyesight for years to come.

If your child is spending more time on screens, experiencing eye strain, or hasn’t had a recent eye exam, now is the perfect time to schedule a pediatric vision check. Contact Yunic Vision Care to support your child’s visual health and development. Visit our office in Lawrence Township, Brick, or Ocean, New Jersey. Please call (609) 779-7015, (732) 262-6313, or (732) 481-0026 to book an appointment today.