Screen time for kids

Most parents worry about how much time their children spend on digital devices. The main areas of concern for your child's eyes in relation to screen time are blue light exposure and digital eye strain.

Blue light is a high-energy visible light naturally present in sunlight, but is also something we can see from screens such as TVs, computers, smartphones and tablets. There is currently no scientific evidence that blue light causes damage to the eyes. However, there is evidence to suggest that carrying out near tasks, involving looking at something close-up, such as using mobile devices, screen time and reading a book, can increase eye strain for those who do this for long periods of time.

Digital eye strain happens when a lot of time is spent using near vision on screens, for example, reading on screen or playing online games. Digital eye strain does not cause permanent damage to your eyes but can be uncomfortable. One of the main symptoms is temporary blurred vision, but other signs such as sore and tired eyes, dry eye and headaches are also associated with digital eye strain.

Using screens close to bedtime may contribute to poorer sleep, which may mean your child’s concentration levels are lower during the day. This may be because blue light is linked to the suppression of the hormone melatonin which makes us feel sleepy.

For more information, read the full 'facts for parents' guide from the Associaton of Optometrists: https://www.aop.org.uk/.../screen-time-for-kids-facts-for...

In the guide they recommend the following tips for keeping your child's eyes healthy...

🔷 Get them outdoors — regular play and exercise can help prevent or reduce the development of myopia (short-sightedness). Studies show two hours of outdoor activity a day is ideal. Read more in our post on how outside play protects eyesight
🔷 Using night settings, if your device has them, may help children sleep by reducing the amount of blue light given off by the screen during night-time hours.
🔷 Make sure digital devices are turned off at least an hour before bedtime.
🔷 Book your child in for a sight test every two years, from the age of three, or more often if your optometrist recommends it.

If you have any questions or concerns realting to screen time and your child's eye health please get in touch with us here at Blink. You can book an eye test with us here