The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that children aged 4-18 years old limit their screen time to less than two hours per day. However, many parents and children struggle to set boundaries or manage their screen use outside of these recommended limits.
Excessive screen time can lead to digital eye strain, which is a common complaint among children who spend long periods in front of screens. Digital eye strain occurs when the eyes are subjected to too much light, heat, and dryness from devices like computers, tablets, and smartphones. It can cause symptoms such as blurred vision, headaches, and fatigue.
Furthermore, prolonged screen time has been linked to an increased risk of myopia (nearsightedness) in children. Studies have shown that children who spend more time staring at screens are more likely to develop myopia. Additionally, excessive screen time can also lead to eye fatigue, dry eyes, and blurred vision.
Fortunately, there are steps parents and caregivers can take to promote healthy screen use habits in children. These include setting limits on screen time, providing adequate outdoor playtime, and encouraging regular breaks from screens. Additionally, using blue light filtering glasses or apps can help reduce the risk of digital eye strain.
By understanding the potential risks associated with excessive screen time, parents and caregivers can take proactive steps to protect their children's eyesight. For more information on this topic, please visit https://www.theglobaldispatch.com/screen-time-and-how-it-affects-eyesight-in-children
https://www.theglobaldispatch.com/screen-time-and-how-it-affects-eyesight-in-children