Can Too Much Screen Time for Kids Cause Computer Vision?

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EyeQue Team

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August 15, 2019

Kids Using Tablets

You may have heard that too much screen time can impact your child’s vision, but is that really true? Let’s talk about how digital screens may impact your child’s eye health, whether they can cause “computer vision,” and how to set limits on screen time.

What Is Computer Vision?

Computer vision syndrome, also known as digital eye strain, refers to various symptoms caused by staring at a digital screen for an extended period of time. These symptoms may include:

  • Dry or itchy eyes
  • Blurry vision
  • Headaches

Can Kids Get Computer Vision?

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, any time your child’s eyes are focused on nearby objects for an extended period of time, they are at risk for eye strain and developing myopia (nearsightedness). This means parents should limit how much time a child stares at any screen and even books during any given viewing session.

How Does Screen Time Impact Children’s Vision Long Term?

Contrary to popular belief, the AAO reports the simple act of staring at a screen won’t cause permanent eye damage. However, researchers have found that when children spend too much time indoors in general, they are at higher risk for developing myopia. Experts recommend children play outdoors for at least forty minutes each day for healthy vision.

Should you limit your child’s screen time?

The American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry recommends the following screen time guidelines for your child to prevent computer vision and promote healthy eyes:

  • Infants between 0-1 years old should not view digital screens.
  • Children ages 2-5 years old should view digital screens for one hour or less.
  • Children ages 6 and older should have consistent limits on their screen time.

Also, the AACAP recommends following the 20-20-20 rule: For every 20 minutes you look at a close up object, spend 20 seconds looking at something else located least 20 feet away.

How can you test your child’s vision?

The EyeQue Insight allows you to test your kids’ vision anytime from the comfort of home with a fun smartphone app. EyeQue will securely store vision information so that you can track your children’s vision over time and know if they have 20/20 vision.

Save Time, Save Money, See Better

The EyeQue Vision Monitoring Kit combines two at-home vision test solutions. Test your refractive error with VisionCheck, and screen for distance, color, and contrast vision with the Insight. A pupillary distance tool, Bluetooth remote, and a soft-shell protective case are included.

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