How Much Screen Time Is Enough for Kids?

Your child’s vision matters. Let OptoDoc guide you on keeping their eyes healthy!

Screen Time and Children: The Modern Dilemma

In today’s digital age, screens are everywhere—tablets, smartphones, laptops, TVs, and even virtual learning tools. While these devices provide entertainment and education, excessive screen time can have consequences for a child’s vision and overall health. So, how much is too much?

Recommended Screen Time for Children

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), here are the recommended screen time guidelines:

• Under 2 years old: No screen time, except for video chatting with family.
• Ages 2-5: Limit screen time to 1 hour per day of high-quality programming.
• Ages 6 and older: Place consistent limits on screen time to ensure it doesn’t interfere with sleep, physical activity, and other healthy behaviors.

For school-aged children, especially those engaging in virtual learning, frequent breaks and eye care practices are essential to maintain healthy vision.

How Screen Time Affects Kids’ Eyes

Prolonged screen time can lead to digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Symptoms include:

• Dry or irritated eyes
• Blurred vision
• Headaches
• Difficulty focusing

Children are particularly vulnerable because their eyes are still developing and may have trouble recognizing or verbalizing discomfort.

Tips to Reduce the Impact of Screen Time

At OptoDoc, we recommend the following strategies to protect your child’s eyes from excessive screen exposure:

• Encourage the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
• Ensure proper lighting: Avoid using screens in dimly lit rooms.
• Adjust screen settings: Increase text size and reduce screen brightness.
• Encourage outdoor play: Natural light is beneficial for eye health and helps reduce the risk of myopia.
• Use blue light-blocking glasses: Available at OptoDoc to help reduce the harmful effects of prolonged screen exposure.

Schedule Regular Eye Exams at OptoDoc

One of the best ways to monitor your child’s vision is by scheduling regular eye exams. At OptoDoc, we use advanced technology to detect potential vision problems early and provide tailored solutions to keep your child’s eyes healthy.

Our pediatric-friendly team ensures a comfortable and thorough examination for your little ones, checking for digital eye strain, myopia, and other eye conditions.

Ready to Take Care of Your Child’s Vision?

Contact OptoDoc today to book an eye exam and explore our range of blue light-blocking glasses designed for kids.

Book Your Appointment Now!