How Screen Time Impacts Kids’ Eyes—and Practical Ways to Protect Them (2026-01-06-2000)

The Hidden Dangers of Screen Time on Kids’ Eyes: What Okotoks Parents Need to Know

As a parent, it’s no secret that kids are glued to screens these days. From tablets and smartphones to gaming consoles and laptops, screen time is an integral part of modern childhood. However, what many parents may not know is the potential harm this can cause to their little ones’ eyes.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), prolonged screen time has been linked to a higher risk of developing myopia, or nearsightedness, in children. In fact, studies have shown that spending more than 2 hours per day on screens increases the likelihood of myopia by up to 60% (1). As an optometrist serving Okotoks and Alberta, we want to help you understand how screen time impacts kids’ eyes and provide practical tips to protect them.

The Risks of Screen Time for Kids’ Eyes

Prolonged screen time can cause a range of eye problems in children, including:

* Myopia (nearsightedness)

* Hyperopia (farsightedness)

* Astigmatism

* Dry eyes

* Eye strain and fatigue

These conditions can lead to a decrease in vision quality, headaches, and even blurred vision. In severe cases, prolonged screen time has been linked to an increased risk of eye diseases like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.

Practical Tips for Protecting Kids’ Eyes

Here are some expert-approved tips to help minimize the risks associated with screen time:

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

This simple yet effective tip encourages kids to take regular breaks from screens every 20 minutes to focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.

2. Maintain a Healthy Distance

Encourage your child to sit at least an arm’s length (about 25-30 inches) away from the screen while using devices. This can help prevent excessive focusing on close objects, which can lead to myopia.

3. Adjust Screen Settings for Kids

Many devices now offer built-in settings that allow parents to limit screen time and customize display options for children. Look into these features and adjust them according to your child’s needs.

What Can You Do at Home?

In addition to the tips above, there are several things you can do at home to protect your child’s eyes:

* Encourage outdoor playtime to reduce overall screen time

* Ensure regular eye exams with an optometrist (at Fantastic Glasses Okotoks, we recommend annual check-ups for children)

* Provide a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants to support eye health

Expert Eye Care Services at Fantastic Glasses

Our experienced optometrists in Okotoks are dedicated to providing expert eye care services for kids and adults alike. From comprehensive eye exams to selecting the perfect frames and lenses, we’re here to help you protect your family’s vision.

Visit our Okotoks location today for:

* Comprehensive eye exams for children

* prescription glasses and contact lenses

* Customized frame selection for kids (and adults!)

* Expert advice on maintaining healthy eyes

References and Further Reading

For more information on eye health, screen time, and vision care, visit:

Homepage

References and Further Reading

https://fantasticglasses.ca