Our board-certified ophthalmologists and experienced optometrist are here to help protect your child’s vision at Eye Care Institute in Santa Rosa, California. Regular eye exams are a simple way to catch small problems before they become big ones. The good news is, a few simple changes — and knowing what to watch for — can make all the difference.
What Science Says About Screen Time and Vision
There’s no question that long stretches of screen time can cause discomfort for anyone, including kids. Blurry vision, headaches, tired eyes, and even trouble focusing on objects far away are all signs of digital eye strain. As more learning happens on tablets or computers, these issues have become more common, especially in school-aged children.
That doesn’t mean technology is the enemy. It just means it’s worth paying attention to how much time your child spends on devices and how they’re using them. Healthy habits go a long way in protecting their vision during these screen-heavy years.
Is Screentime Bad for Kids’ Eyes?
The short answer is: not necessarily, but it can be. Kids tend to hold devices close to their faces, forget to blink, and rarely take breaks. Over time, that can strain their developing eyes.
One helpful habit is to encourage short screen breaks throughout the day, like having your child pause every 20 minutes to look up, stretch, or focus on something across the room. It doesn’t have to be exact, but building in little breaks can give their eyes a rest.
How Eye Care Institute Can Help
If you’re starting to notice signs like squinting, rubbing eyes, or complaints of headaches, it might be time to schedule an eye exam for your child. At Eye Care Institute, we take the time to get to know your child and check for early signs of strain or vision issues.
We’ve been serving families across Santa Rosa and Sonoma County and are dedicated to helping every patient see their very best. Call us at 707-546-9800 to book an appointment.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult your PCP or eye doctor before starting any new therapies. To schedule a consultation, please contact us.