If your child is spending more time in front of screens than ever before, you're not imagining it. From blurry vision to bedtime battles, digital eye strain is becoming one of the most overlooked consequences of modern parenting.
Between online learning, texting, gaming, and streaming, today’s kids are spending several hours a day glued to digital devices. And while screens are now a part of everyday life, that doesn’t mean they come without consequences — especially when it comes to your child’s vision.
Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, happens when the eyes are overworked from prolonged screen use. And children don’t always have the words to explain what they’re feeling — or the awareness to know something’s wrong. That’s why spotting the signs early matters.
Signs of Digital Eye Strain in Children
Here are some of the most common symptoms to watch for:
- Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
- Squinting at screens or books
- Complaints of blurry or double vision
- Headaches, especially after screen use
- Dry, itchy, or watery eyes
- Trouble focusing on schoolwork
- Avoiding screens or books they used to enjoy
Many of these signs can be subtle — or easily mistaken for something else, like tiredness or boredom. But if they persist, especially during or after screen time, it could be a sign your child’s eyes are being pushed too hard.
Why Kids Are More Vulnerable Than Adults
Digital eye strain isn’t just a grown-up problem. Children are especially at risk for several reasons — and it has less to do with the amount of screen time, and more to do with how they use screens.
First, kids rarely take breaks. Their focus is intense, which means they can spend hours looking at a device just inches from their face without realizing it. Their visual systems are still developing, and extended near work puts that system under constant stress.
Second, they’re more sensitive to things like:
- Blue light, which can disrupt sleep cycles and make it harder to wind down at night.
- Poor posture, which causes not just eye strain but neck and shoulder discomfort.
- Screen glare and brightness, which forces the eyes to work harder than necessary.
And finally, they often won’t speak up. Your child may not recognize that their eyes shouldn’t feel tired or sore. And by the time they do, they may already be struggling to concentrate, read comfortably, or enjoy their favorite activities.
Smart Screen Habits: Tips to Help Prevent Eye Strain
While you may not be able to avoid screens entirely, small changes can go a long way in protecting your child’s eye health. Here are some practical steps you can take at home:
- Try the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. This gives their eye muscles a much-needed break.
- Encourage better posture: Make sure screens are at eye level, and remind kids to sit back instead of hunching over.
- Adjust screen settings: Lower screen brightness, increase text size, and use night mode features to reduce eye strain.
- Consider blue light protection: Blue light–filtering glasses or screen filters can reduce exposure — especially if your child uses screens in the evening.
- Limit recreational screen time: Try to set boundaries around non-essential screen use, particularly before bed when blue light can interfere with sleep.
- Promote outdoor play: Research suggests that spending time outdoors may help reduce the risk of developing myopia (nearsightedness), especially in younger children.
Making these adjustments part of your family’s daily routine in Lomita — even in small ways — can make a big difference over time.
When to Schedule an Eye Exam
If your child is showing signs of eye strain, it’s important not to wait. Many kids won’t complain about their vision — not because nothing’s wrong, but because they think what they’re experiencing is normal.
Here are a few signs it’s time to schedule an exam with a pediatric optometrist:
- Squinting while reading or using screens
- Frequent headaches
- Rubbing their eyes or blinking excessively
- Complaints about seeing double or blurry
- Avoiding screens or losing interest in reading
A comprehensive pediatric eye exam can uncover issues that standard school vision screenings may miss — and it ensures your child has the visual tools they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.
H2: Pediatric Eye Care That Puts Families First
At , we understand that kids need a little extra comfort — and parents need clear answers. Our team offers pediatric-friendly care in a calm, welcoming environment in Lomita.
Healthy vision is about more than seeing clearly — it’s about learning, confidence, and long-term wellness. Book a back-to-school eye exam at today and give your child the clarity and comfort they deserve.
Please note we are closed for lunch 12pm -1pm.