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Eye Care Journal
Screen Time and Kids' Eyes: How Much Is Too Much
Simple guidelines for balancing screen use so children's eyes stay healthy as they grow.
Children today spend far more time in front of screens than any previous generation, whether for schoolwork, entertainment, or simply staying in touch with friends. While screens themselves aren't inherently harmful, long, uninterrupted stretches of close-up screen use can tire young eyes and contribute to digital eye strain.
Common signs of digital eye strain in children include rubbing their eyes frequently, complaining of headaches, blinking less than usual while focused on a screen, or sitting unusually close to the television or tablet. Because young children may not clearly describe what they're feeling, parents often notice these behavioural signs before the child mentions any discomfort.
Children's eyes are still developing, so building healthy screen habits early makes a real difference as they grow.
Dr. Ajay Panchal
A helpful habit to encourage is the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a break and look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Building in regular screen breaks, encouraging outdoor playtime, and setting age-appropriate daily limits can all help reduce eye strain while supporting overall healthy development.
If your child is frequently rubbing their eyes, squinting, sitting very close to screens, or complaining of headaches, it's worth scheduling a pediatric eye checkup. Regular eye exams are valuable even without symptoms, since some vision problems in children aren't obvious until they're checked properly.
Concerned about your child's screen habits or eye health? Book a pediatric eye checkup with Dr. Ajay Panchal to get a clear picture of how their eyes are developing.