Pediatric Eye Care During the Digital Age: Addressing the Impact of Screen Time

In today’s digital age, screens are an integral part of daily life for both adults and children. Whether it's for education, entertainment, or communication, children are spending more time than ever in front of screens. While technology offers many benefits, it can also impact pediatric eye health. At City Eye Optometry, we emphasize the importance of addressing the effects of prolonged screen time to ensure the long-term eye health of children.

 

The Rise of Digital Device Use Among Children

From tablets and smartphones to computers and TVs, children are surrounded by screens. Studies show that children aged 8 to 18 spend an average of 7.5 hours per day in front of a screen, often exceeding the recommended guidelines by health professionals. As screen time increases, so do concerns about its impact on their developing eyes.

How Screen Time Affects Children’s Eyes

Prolonged screen use can lead to several eye-related issues. Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, occurs when the eyes are overworked from long hours of focusing on a screen. Children may experience symptoms such as:

•          Blurry vision

•          Dry eyes

•          Eye fatigue

•          Headaches

•          Difficulty concentrating

Excessive near work, such as focusing on screens at close distances, has been linked to the development and progression of myopia, or nearsightedness. This is particularly concerning in children, as myopia often worsens with age and can lead to more severe vision problems later in life.
Blue light emitted from digital screens can also interfere with the production of melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Children who use screens before bedtime may have difficulty falling asleep, leading to poor sleep quality, which can affect their overall well-being.

 

Practical Tips for Parents to Protect Their Child’s Eyes

At City Eye Optometry, we believe in a proactive approach to pediatric eye care. Here are some strategies to help mitigate the negative effects of screen time on your child’s eyes:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Encourage your child to take a 20-second break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away. This simple practice helps reduce digital eye strain by relaxing the eye muscles and preventing prolonged focus on a screen.

2. Maintain Proper Screen Distance and Positioning: Make sure screens are positioned at least an arm’s length away from your child’s eyes and slightly below eye level. Holding devices too close can increase eye strain and contribute to myopia progression.

3. Limit Screen Time Before Bed: Reducing screen exposure at least one hour before bedtime can help your child sleep better by minimizing blue light exposure. Consider using blue light filters on devices or purchasing blue light blocking glasses to lessen the impact.

4. Encourage Outdoor Play: Spending time outdoors and engaging in activities that promote distance vision can help slow down the progression of myopia. Natural light and looking at objects from a distance are important for overall eye health.

5. Incorporate Blue Light Blocking Glasses: Consider investing in blue light blocking glasses for your child, especially if they are using digital devices for extended periods. These glasses help filter out harmful blue light emitted from screens, reducing the risk of eye strain and sleep disruptions. Our team at City Eye Optometry can help you choose the right blue light blocking lenses for your child’s needs.

6. Schedule Regular Eye Exams: Routine pediatric eye exams are essential in detecting vision problems early. At City Eye Optometry, we offer comprehensive eye exams for children to ensure their vision is developing properly and to address any concerns related to screen time.

 

City Eye Optometry’s Commitment to Pediatric Eye Health

Our team at City Eye Optometry is dedicated to helping children maintain healthy vision, especially in today’s screen-dominated world. We offer personalized advice and solutions to help parents manage their child’s screen time and protect their eye health. Whether it’s monitoring for myopia or treating digital eye strain, we’re here to support your child’s visual needs.

Schedule a comprehensive pediatric eye exam at City Eye Optometry to ensure your child’s vision stays sharp and healthy despite increased screen time. Visit any of our convenient locations in Bellingham and Brockton in Massachusetts, or Vernon and Middletown in Connecticut. Call (978)-208-2390 to book your appointment today.