How Screen Time Affects Children's Vision

Digital Eye Strain

Staring at screens for extended periods can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. This condition arises when the eyes are forced to work harder to focus on digital devices, especially without breaks or proper ergonomics. Children are particularly vulnerable because they may not recognize the signs of strain or may ignore them.

Common symptoms include:

Eye fatigue and discomfort

Blurry or fluctuating vision

Headaches or difficulty concentrating

Dry, irritated, or watery eyes

Neck and shoulder tension due to poor posture

Increased Risk of Myopia (Nearsightedness)

Excessive screen time is increasingly being linked to a spike in childhood myopia. This condition makes distant objects appear blurry and often progresses quickly during childhood and adolescence. Studies suggest that a lack of outdoor activity, combined with extended periods of near work like reading or digital device use, contributes significantly to early-onset and rapidly progressing myopia. Regular eye exams and myopia management strategies, such as orthokeratology (Ortho-K), multifocal contact lenses, or low-dose atropine drops, can help slow progression.

Disrupted Sleep Patterns

Excessive screen time (especially before bed) can interfere with a child's sleep quality. Digital devices emit blue light, which suppresses the production of melatonin, the hormone that signals the body it’s time to sleep. As a result, children who use screens late into the evening may experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up feeling rested. Poor sleep not only affects mood and concentration but can also impact academic performance and overall health.

What Parents Can Do to Protect Their Child’s Vision

Fortunately, there are several simple steps parents can take to minimize the effects of screen time on their child’s eyes:

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 helps reduce eye strain and refocus the eyes.

Encourage Outdoor Play: Spending at least 1–2 hours outside each day has been shown to help slow the progression of myopia. Outdoor light stimulates healthy eye development in ways indoor lighting can't replicate.

Limit Screen Time: Set reasonable daily screen time limits, especially for non-educational use. Designate screen-free times such as during meals and before bedtime.

Create an Eye-Friendly Setup: Make sure screens are positioned at eye level and at a proper distance. Reduce glare and ensure good ambient lighting to ease the strain on your child’s eyes.

Why Regular Pediatric Eye Exams Are Essential

Even if your child isn’t complaining about their vision, it doesn’t mean everything is fine. Children often don’t recognize vision problems because they assume everyone sees the way they do. At Eye Center of Virginia, we offer comprehensive pediatric eye exams designed to detect vision issues early, before they impact your child’s development or academic performance. Our exams go beyond basic vision screenings, checking for eye coordination, focusing ability, and overall eye health.

Protect Your Child’s Vision Today

The effects of screen time on your child’s vision are real, but they’re also manageable with the right care. Routine pediatric eye exams play a critical role in maintaining healthy vision and catching potential problems early.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam at Eye Center of Virginia and take the first step toward protecting your child’s eye health. Visit our office in Williamsburg, Virginia, or call (757) 919-3500 to book an appointment today.