With students going back in front of tablets instead of to the classroom when school starts again, they are going to get a lot of screen time. But will that cause anything to happen to their eyes?
Can too much screen time strain your child’s eyes?
Too much screen time can cause eye strain. It’s recommended children take regular breaks from their phones and tablets and reduce the risk of eyestrain by following the 20-20-20 rule: for every 20 minutes of screen time, they should look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Looking out of a window works great.
Can too much screen time cause dry eye?
When people stare at fixed objects like screens for a long time, they blink less. On top of that, they’re also likely not closing their eyes completely when they do blink. This means the tears coating their eyes evaporate quicker, and that can cause dry eyes. The 20-20-20 rule helps prevent dry eye, and preservative-free artificial tear drops are safe for children over the age of 3.
Can blue light affect their eyes?
Dr. Sandra Nassar
Blue light does not blind children or cause nearsightedness. While parents may hear cautionary tales about blue light from smart devices, people are exposed to more blue light from the sun than from screens. However, it can disrupt sleep because blue light stimulates the brain and prevents it from producing melatonin. Therefore, it’s important your children stop using their devices at least an hour before bed.
“Blue light blocking lenses are beneficial to anybody who uses a computer,” CEENTA Optometrist Sandra Nassar, OD, said. “They reduce exposure to blue light rays by about 80 percent. With students spending more time on tablets and computers this upcoming school year, blue light glasses are a great way to reduce digital eye strain.”
Getting glasses at CEENTA
If you want to ensure your children can see their screens clearly, schedule an eye exam at CEENTA. If your child needs glasses, you can get them right after your child’s exam without leaving our offices. Blue-light filters can be added to any lenses, too, including those in children’s glasses. And if your child needs glasses, now is the best time to get them. At CEENTA, students will receive 35 percent off their first pair of glasses, and 50 percent off their second pair.* Visit any of our optical shops and get your child fitted with glasses that not only help them see better, but look good, too.
To find a CEENTA optical location near you, visit www.ceenta.com/locations.
*Offer valid for everyone 18 and under and for anyone with a valid student ID. Some restrictions apply. See an optician for details.
Charlotte Eye Ear Nose & Throat Associates
