Concerns about the possible negative consequences of excessive screen time on children are becoming more prevalent as parents, caregivers, and educators get ready for the new school year with new learning experiences and equipment. Given how common digital gadgets are in both school and recreation, it’s critical to fully understand the long-term effects that excessive screen time can have on developing children’s bodies and minds.
The requirement for glasses to see distant objects is referred to as myopia, or nearsightedness. The global issue of childhood myopia development is becoming more pressing from the standpoint of eye health. Research shows that kids who spend more time indoors reading—whether from books, iPads, cellphones, or homework—and less time outside are more likely to experience myopia.
According to a poll conducted by the Canadian Ophthalmological Society, four out of ten Canadian parents said that their child had suffered one or more symptoms related to their eyes and eyesight in the previous two years. Screen time was identified as the primary contributing cause. Overusing screens can cause a number of symptoms, such as headaches, backaches, neck aches, blurred vision, and eye irritation (dry, itchy, or red eyes). It can also cause muscle tiredness.
Here are four ways to protect children’s eyes during screen time use:
- Apply the rule 20/20/20. Look at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds for every 20 minutes you spend in front of a screen.
- Those who struggle with near focus may experience eye strain from reading a book or magazine or from staring at a small screen too closely. This can be mitigated by using the proper prescription eyewear.
- Spend more time outdoors and minimize your time spent near screens (closer than 30 cm), since natural light helps your eyes adapt.
- Make sure you have routine eye exams to check for myopia and receive treatment if necessary.
Screen time strain is one factor in myopia, but it’s not the only one. Important contributions are played by genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors, such as outdoor activity. Your child’s eye health and general wellbeing can be supported by encouraging healthy eye practices and striking a balance between screen time and outdoor play.
Learn more about how to take care of your eyes at: https://newscanada.com/en/Is-screen-time-making-your-kids-nearsighted–139338
Reference: https://newscanada.com/
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