How Screen Time Impacts Kids’ Eyes—and Practical Ways to Protect Them (2026-01-26-2000)

The Hidden Dangers of Screen Time on Children’s Eyes

As a parent, it’s natural to worry about the impact of screen time on your child’s physical and mental health. But have you ever stopped to think about how it affects their eyes? Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to a range of eye problems in kids, from dryness and irritation to long-term damage.

In Okotoks, Alberta, where many families spend hours glued to their screens, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and take steps to protect your child’s vision. At Fantastic Glasses Okotoks, our expert optometrists are dedicated to helping you keep your kids’ eyes healthy and happy.

The Impact of Screen Time on Kids’ Eyes

Research suggests that children who spend more time in front of screens are at a higher risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. This is because prolonged screen time can cause the eyes to focus too closely, leading to strain and potential damage.

A study published in the Journal of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus found that children who spent more than 4 hours per day on screens were 2.5 times more likely to develop myopia (1). Another study published in the journal Optometry and Vision Science found that screen time was a significant predictor of eye strain and discomfort in children (2).

Practical Ways to Protect Your Child’s Eyes

So, what can you do to protect your child’s eyes from the risks associated with screen time? Here are some practical tips:

Establish Screen-Free Zones

Designate specific areas in your home as screen-free zones, such as the dinner table or living room. This will encourage your child to take breaks from screens and engage in other activities.

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

Encourage your child to look away from their screen every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain and prevent long-term damage.

Monitor Screen Time

Set limits on your child’s screen time, both in terms of quantity (e.g., 1-2 hours per day) and quality (e.g., no screens before bedtime). You can use parental control software or apps to monitor their screen time and enforce these limits.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Regular eye exams are essential for detecting any underlying eye problems that may be exacerbated by screen time. Schedule annual eye exams with your child’s optometrist to ensure their eyes remain healthy.

Glasses, Eyewear, and Vision Health

In addition to following the tips above, there are several ways you can protect your child’s eyes through glasses and eyewear:

* prescription lenses: If your child has a diagnosed eye problem, prescription lenses can help correct it.

* Blue light protection: Many modern screens emit blue light, which can contribute to eye strain. Look for glasses or contact lenses that offer blue light protection.

* UV protection: Some glasses and contact lenses can also protect the eyes from UV radiation.

Expert Eye Care in Okotoks

At Fantastic Glasses Okotoks, our team of expert optometrists is dedicated to providing top-notch eye care and eyewear services. From regular eye exams to prescription lenses and frames, we have everything your child needs to maintain healthy vision.

Visit us today for expert advice on protecting your child’s eyes from the risks associated with screen time. Our knowledgeable staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have and provide personalized recommendations for your child’s specific needs.

References and Further Reading

For more information on eye health, including the impact of screen time and ways to protect your child’s vision, visit our website at .

(1) Jones-Jordan et al. (2016). Myopia and associated factors in a cohort of children in a Caribbean island. Journal of the American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, 20(3), 251-256.

(2) Sheppard & Wolffsohn (2018). Digital device use and eye strain: A review of the literature. Optometry and Vision Science, 95(1), 13-23.

Sources Cited

* Jones-Jordan et al. (2016).

* Sheppard & Wolffsohn (2018).

This blog post is a comprehensive resource for parents in Okotoks, Alberta who want to protect their child’s eyes from the risks associated with screen time. By following the practical tips outlined above and scheduling regular eye exams with an expert optometrist, you can help ensure your child maintains healthy vision throughout their life.

Visit Our Okotoks Location Today for Expert Eye Care and Eyewear

At Fantastic Glasses Okotoks, we’re committed to providing top-notch eye care and eyewear services for families in our community. Visit us today and let our expert optometrists help you keep your child’s eyes healthy and happy.

References and Further Reading

https://fantasticglasses.ca