Children today spend more time than ever reading, studying, playing and learning through

digital screens. From online homework and tablets to smartphones and video games,

near-focused activities have become a regular part of childhood.

While screens are not the sole cause of myopia, increased near work and screen use are

associated with a higher risk of myopia in children. At the same time, spending more time

outdoors may help reduce the likelihood of developing myopia.

For parents, the goal isn’t necessarily to eliminate screens. Instead, creating healthier visual

habits can help children manage their daily visual demands and support long-term eye health.

Understanding Myopia in Children

Myopia, commonly known as nearsightedness, is a condition in which nearby objects appear

clear while distant objects look blurry. A child with myopia may have difficulty seeing the

classroom board, recognizing objects at a distance or watching television clearly.

One challenge is that children may not realize their vision has changed. If blurry distance vision

has developed gradually, they may simply assume that everyone sees the same way.

This makes regular comprehensive eye exams particularly important. Early detection allows an

optometrist to identify changes in vision and discuss appropriate management options with

parents.

How Can Screen Time Affect Children’s Eyes?

Extended screen use can place sustained demands on the eyes. Children may experience

symptoms of digital eye strain, including tired eyes, headaches, blurred vision, dryness and eye

discomfort. Concentrating on a screen can also reduce blinking, which may contribute to dry or

irritated eyes.

Screens also tend to replace activities that are important for children’s overall health, particularly

outdoor play and physical activity.This is why developing a balanced daily routine is more useful than simply focusing on the

number of hours a child spends on a device.

1. Encourage Regular Screen Breaks

One of the simplest habits parents can introduce is taking regular breaks during prolonged

screen use.

The 20-20-20 rule is an easy way to remember:

Every 20 minutes, look at something about 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

For longer homework sessions, children should also take movement breaks rather than

remaining focused on a screen or book continuously.

Regular breaks can give the eyes an opportunity to relax and may help reduce symptoms

associated with prolonged near work.

2. Make Outdoor Time Part of the Daily Routine

Outdoor time is an important part of healthy childhood development, and it may also benefit

children’s vision.

Research indicates that spending more time outdoors in daylight can help reduce the risk of

developing myopia. The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends encouraging

children to spend at least an hour outdoors each day, with more being beneficial.

Parents can make this easier by incorporating simple activities such as:

• Playing at the park
• Walking or cycling
• Outdoor sports
• Family hikes
• Playing with friends outside

Replacing some recreational screen time with outdoor activities can create a healthier balance

throughout the day.

3. Encourage a Comfortable Viewing Distance

Children can become absorbed in tablets, phones and other devices and may gradually move

them closer to their faces.Encourage children to use screens from a comfortable viewing distance and avoid holding

devices unnecessarily close. If a child consistently sits very close to the television, brings books

close to their face or struggles to see distant objects, it may be worth scheduling a

comprehensive eye examination.

These behaviours can sometimes be signs of an underlying vision problem, including myopia.

4. Create an Eye-Friendly Homework Environment

A child’s study environment can also influence visual comfort.

Parents can help by:

• Providing adequate room lighting
• Reducing glare and reflections on screens
• Keeping screens at a comfortable viewing position
• Encouraging good posture
• Taking regular breaks from near work
• Avoiding screen use in a completely dark room

A comfortable environment won’t prevent myopia on its own, but it can help make extended

reading and screen use more comfortable.

5. Keep Screens Away Before Bedtime

Screen habits can also affect sleep. Excessive screen use in the evening can interfere with

healthy sleep patterns, which are important for children’s overall well-being.

The Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends avoiding screen use for at least one

hour before bedtime.

Instead, encourage screen-free activities such as reading a physical book, talking with family

members or preparing for the next day.

6. Know the Signs That Your Child May Need an Eye

Exam

Parents should watch for changes in how their child sees or uses their eyes.

Some signs can include:

• Squinting to see distant objects
• Sitting very close to the television
• Holding books or devices unusually close
• Difficulty seeing the classroom board
• Frequent headaches
• Eye rubbing or excessive blinking
• Avoiding activities that require distance vision
• Complaining that their eyes feel tired

Children don’t always recognize these symptoms as a vision problem, so parents and teachers

may be the first to notice a change.

7. Schedule Regular Children’s Eye Exams

Healthy habits at home are an important part of children’s eye care, but they shouldn’t replace

professional examinations.

Regular comprehensive eye exams can help identify myopia and other vision problems early.

For school-aged children, the Canadian Association of Optometrists recommends annual eye

examinations.

For parents looking for professional guidance, Lucent Family Eye Care provides

comprehensive children’s eye care and myopia management services. An eye care professional

can assess a child’s vision, monitor changes over time and help parents understand the options

available for managing myopia.

Supporting Better Eye Health Starts With Small Habits

Managing children’s screen use doesn’t have to mean removing technology from their daily

lives. Screens are now an important part of education, communication and entertainment.

Instead, parents can focus on balance,regular screen breaks, comfortable viewing habits,

adequate outdoor time, healthy sleep routines and regular eye examinations.

For children who are already showing signs of myopia or are at increased risk, early

assessment and ongoing monitoring can be especially important. Evidence-based myopia

management is recognized as an important part of children’s eye care.

Lucent Family Eye Care can help families take a proactive approach to children’s vision

through comprehensive eye care and personalized myopia management.

Ultimately, protecting a child’s vision isn’t about avoiding screens altogether. It’s about teaching

healthier habits early, recognizing changes in vision and making professional eye care part of

their routine.

Healthy vision starts with healthy habits, and early attention can make a meaningful

difference.