Between Zoom classes, online homework, and recreational screen time, digital devices are a regular part of childhood now. And while virtual learning helped kids stay connected during the pandemic, the shift to screen-based education came with a hidden cost – especially for their eyes.
As your family gears up for a new school year, it’s a good time to revisit how screen time can impact your child’s vision, both short- and long-term.
Why Screens Can Cause Problems
We blink about 66% less when looking at screens. This reduced blinking speeds up tear evaporation, which can lead to dry, irritated eyes. Children may not always recognize or communicate these symptoms, but they’ll often rub their eyes or struggle with reading tasks.
Prolonged screen use can also lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome.
Common symptoms include:
- Tired or burning eyes
- Headaches
- Blurry or fluctuating vision
- Neck and shoulder tension
- Trouble focusing
Even more concerning is the potential impact of blue light – the high-energy visible light emitted by phones, tablets, and computers. While the science is still developing, early studies suggest that overexposure may contribute to damage in retinal cells over time and may disrupt sleep cycles by interfering with melatonin production.
That’s a lot of strain on a small pair of eyes.
How to Make Virtual Learning Easier on Your Child’s Eyes
Digital learning isn’t going away, but there are practical ways to minimize its impact on your child’s eye health.
Here are a few screen-smart strategies for back-to-school season:
- Encourage regular breaks: Teach your child the 20-20-20 rule – every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Use blue light filters: Blue light glasses or screen shields can help reduce glare and limit exposure to high-energy visible light.
- Keep screens at arm’s length: The ideal screen distance is about 18–24 inches from the eyes, with the screen slightly below eye level.
- Limit non-school screen time: Encourage device-free breaks after school. Outdoor time is especially beneficial for eye development.
- Watch for eye rubbing or squinting: These could be signs your child’s vision needs correction or they’re developing strain-related symptoms.
Schedule your Annual Eye Exam at Eyecare Greengate
Even if your child isn’t complaining about their eyes, a yearly eye exam is essential. Many vision issues that affect learning – like blurry vision, poor focus, or binocular dysfunction – don’t always show up in a basic vision screening at school.
A comprehensive eye exam will check your child’s visual acuity, eye health, and how well their eyes work together. At Eyecare Greengate, we take a proactive approach to children’s eye care – especially in our increasingly digital world.
Back-to-school season is the perfect time to get ahead of potential problems. Book your child’s eye exam at our Murrysville or Greensburg location today.
FAQ
Can too much screen time make my child more nearsighted?
- Yes. Children who spend long hours on close-up tasks – especially on screens – have a higher risk of developing or worsening myopia (nearsightedness), especially if they don’t balance that time with outdoor activity.
What signs should I look for if my child is having screen-related vision issues?
- Common signs include frequent eye rubbing, complaints of blurry vision, squinting, headaches, or avoiding reading tasks. Some kids may also hold screens very close or tilt their heads to see better.
Should kids wear computer glasses during virtual learning?
- Blue light glasses or screen-specific lenses can be helpful – especially if your child is on devices for extended periods. Your optometrist can help determine if they’re the right fit for your child’s needs.
Does screen time affect sleep in kids?
- Yes. Blue light from screens can suppress melatonin production, making it harder for kids to fall asleep. It's a good idea to limit screen use 1–2 hours before bedtime.
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