Myopia and Screen Time: Managing Children's Digital Eye Strain

In today’s modern world, screens are everywhere—from classrooms to after-school entertainment. If your child spends hours on tablets, computers, or phones, you may have noticed them squinting more often or complaining about tired eyes. With increasing screen time, cases of myopia (nearsightedness) in children are also on the rise. At Texas State Optical in Sugar Land, we understand that parents want to protect their child’s vision while allowing them to engage in schoolwork and hobbies they enjoy.

How Screen Time Affects Your Child’s Eyes

Digital screens force the eyes to focus at a close distance for long periods, which can put significant strain on their developing visual system. Some common signs of digital eye strain in children include:

•          Frequent squinting or rubbing their eyes

•          Complaints of headaches, especially after using screens

•          Increased sensitivity to light

•          Difficulty concentrating on schoolwork

•          Holding screens too close to their face

Extended near work—whether from reading, homework, or screen use—can accelerate myopia progression. Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long, causing distant objects to appear blurry. This isn’t just about needing glasses; severe myopia increases the risk of future eye health issues such as retinal detachment and glaucoma.

Tips for Managing Digital Eye Strain

While reducing screen time entirely may not be practical, there are ways to help protect your child’s vision:

•       Follow the 20-20-20 Rule – Every 20 minutes, encourage your child to take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This simple habit can significantly reduce eye fatigue.

•       Increase Outdoor Time – Studies show that spending more time outdoors—at least 90 minutes a day—can slow myopia progression. Encourage outdoor play after school instead of extra screen time.

•       Maintain Proper Viewing Distance – Teach your child to hold digital devices at least 18–24 inches away from their face and ensure they sit at a comfortable distance from computer screens.

•       Adjust Screen Settings – Reduce blue light exposure by enabling night mode or blue light filters, which can help minimize strain. Also, ensure the brightness of the screen matches the surrounding environment.

•       Schedule Regular Eye Exams – Even if your child doesn’t complain about vision problems, annual eye exams are crucial for detecting early signs of myopia and digital eye strain. At Texas State Optical Sugar Land, we monitor vision changes and offer myopia management solutions tailored to your child’s needs.

Protect Your Child’s Vision in Sugar Land

The increasing use of screens in education and entertainment makes it essential to be proactive about your child’s eye health. By taking simple steps to manage digital eye strain and scheduling regular check-ups, you can help preserve their vision for years to come.

If your child is experiencing symptoms of digital eye strain or you’re concerned about myopia progression, schedule an eye exam with Texas State Optical Sugar Land for expert care and guidance to keep your child’s eyes healthy. Visit our office in Sugar Land, Texas, or call (281) 238-5668 to book an appointment today.