Tablets, smartphones, laptops — screens are part of daily life for most children, whether they’re learning, relaxing, or watching their favourite shows. But spending too much time in front of a screen, especially without breaks, can affect their eye health. From digital eye strain to short-sightedness, the impact of screen time on developing eyes is real — and growing. The good news? A few simple habits can go a long way in protecting your child’s vision.
What’s the risk?
Prolonged screen use can lead to:
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Headaches
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Dry or irritated eyes
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Blurry vision
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Trouble focusing
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Sleep disruption
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Increased risk of myopia (short-sightedness)
Children’s eyes are still developing, so they’re more vulnerable to the effects of screen overuse.
Spot the signs
Children might not mention vision issues — or even realise they’re struggling. Look out for:
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Eye rubbing
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Squinting at screens
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Sitting very close to devices
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Complaints of headaches or tiredness
If you spot any of these, an eye exam is a good next step.
What you can do
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Follow the 20-20-20 rule |
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Encourage outdoor time At least 2 hours a day in natural daylight can help protect against myopia. |
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Limit screens before bed Turn devices off at least one hour before bedtime to support healthy sleep. |
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Book regular eye tests Routine checks every two years (or more often if needed) help catch problems early — and they’re free on the NHS for under 16s. |
At Eye Emporium, we make children’s eye care simple, relaxed, and even fun.
Book your child’s eye test today — and give their vision a healthy start.
