From homework to texting to video games, kids and teenagers are increasingly using digital screens, and this could have a significant impact on their eye health. The good news: small, steady changes at home make a real difference.
At River Oaks Family Optometry in San Jose, we take pride in offering children's eye care services to help you reduce digital eye strain and keep your child thriving.
What Is Digital Eye Strain in Children?
Digital eye strain (sometimes called computer vision syndrome) happens with increased screen time without enough rest. The focusing system tires out, and the ocular surface dries, which leads to eye discomfort and blur. Common symptoms of digital eye strain include:
- Tired, burning, or watery eyes after reading or screens
- Headaches, especially later in the day
- Intermittent blur or trouble refocusing from near to far
- Squinting, eye rubbing, or short attention span with near tasks
Why Screen Time Affects Growing Eyes
Children’s focusing muscles work hard at near distances. Longer sessions reduce blink rate, which dries the tear film. Poor posture and glare add extra strain. For some children, heavy near work can also coincide with worsening myopia (nearsightedness), which is why we pair home habits with clinical monitoring and myopia control when needed.
5 Steps for a Screen-Smart Family Plan
Small changes add up. Use this checklist and post it near your child’s study space.
1. Implement Frequent Breaks That Reset Focus
- 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Build natural breaks: water refills, stretch timers, or subject switches.
2. Set up That Supports Posture
- Adjust screens: Keep screens at or slightly below eye level to reduce lid gap and dry eyes.
- Posture check: Aim for elbow-to-wrist straight with feet flat on the floor; use a footrest if needed.
- Reading distance: about arm’s length for screens, forearm’s length for print.
3. Get Lighting That Cuts Glare
- Create good lighting: Use indirect, room-level light; avoid overhead hotspots and window glare.
- Get lamps: Position lamps beside the screen, not behind it.
- Nighttime ambient light: Avoid staring at a bright screen in a dark room.
4. Let Outdoor Time Balance Near Work
- Take them outside: Aim for 90–120 minutes outside daily, where practical. Outdoor play supports distance viewing and general eye comfort.
5. Keep Their Eyes Hydrated
- Make sure they blink: Teach a conscious blink during reading by saying, “soft close, open.”
- Remember to drink water: Encourage regular water breaks; a hydrated child often has a happier tear film.
When to Seek Professional Care for Eye Strain
Home strategies work best when paired with professional guidance. If your child experiences persistent headaches, frequent squinting, or fast-changing prescriptions, it’s time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.
At River Oaks Family Optometry, our eye doctors in San Jose use advanced diagnostic tools to evaluate digital strain, detect myopia early, and recommend tailored treatments.
Protecting Young Eyes from Digital Strain in San Jose
Digital strain doesn’t have to derail your child’s learning or play. Simple at-home adjustments combined with professional guidance can protect their eyes now and reduce future risks. Book an eye care appointment at River Oaks Family Optometry, we’re here to help them see clearly, thrive confidently, and enjoy screen time without eye strain.
Digital Eye Strain FAQs
What’s the difference between digital eye strain and myopia?
Digital strain is temporary discomfort from near work. Myopia is a structural change where the eye grows too long. Strain doesn’t always mean myopia, but they often occur together.
Can my child outgrow digital eye strain?
Not necessarily. Digital eye strain can improve when screen habits change, but since the need for digital devices is so prominent in everyday life, blue light glasses and other solutions should be used even as your kids age.
When should my child have their first eye exam?
Experts recommend exams at 6 months, age 3, before starting school, and annually thereafter. More frequent visits may be needed if symptoms or risk factors appear.
