A Parent's Guide to Preventing Digital Eye Strain in Kids

‍

Screens are a big part of both school and home life these days, for our keiki!

Using a tablet, computer, or phone requires the eyes to focus up close for extended periods of time which can lead to digital eye strain. 

Kids often find it hard to articulate “blurry vision” or tired eyes. 

As a parent, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs such as eye rubbing, excessive blinking, headaches after homework, or holding a device too close as these all may be signs of digital eye strain.

Here are a few tips to help protect your children’s eyes while they are using screens:

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule 

Every 20 minutes, have your child look away and focus on something about 20 feet away for 20 seconds. 

That can be as simple as having them look at a window, the backyard, or even just the other side of the room!

Set Up Screens the Right Way 

Keep screens about an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level, to prevent excessive eye strain. 

Match the brightness to the room, avoid glare, and make sure homework lighting is comfortable.

If your child is leaning in or squinting, move the device back or have them take a break.

Remember to Blink 

When kids are focused on a game or a video, they tend to stare and blink less, which can leave the eyes dry and irritated. 

Remind them to blink and look up from the screen from time to time.

Get Them Outside 

Balance screen time with outdoor play!

Time outside in the sun gives the eyes a rest from close-up work and helps by exposing the eyes to natural light in a diverse environment that encourages your child to look at, and see things at varying distances.

Schedule an Annual Eye Exam 

If dryness, redness, headaches, or blurry vision keep coming back, it is time for a comprehensive eye exam. 

Even when everything seems fine, we always encourage annual vision checks so Dr. Punzal can assess your child’s visual acuity and development to help protect their vision as they grow

Punzal Vision is a keiki friendly optometry practice on the Island of Kaua’i, and we love to see children of all ages!

Give us a call at (808) 278-8383 or click the button below to Schedule An Appointment online. 

Our friendly and professional staff will help you get your child scheduled for a comprehensive eye examination.

We look forward to SEEing you soon!