Today’s kids spend more time on screens than ever before—whether for school, gaming, or staying connected with friends. While this technology can support learning and creativity, it also exposes children to the growing risk of digital eye strain, which can cause headaches, blurred vision, and eye fatigue. For many parents, the challenge is finding ways to protect their child’s vision without completely cutting out screen time.
At Lakeside Vision Centre, we’ve seen a rise in young patients experiencing symptoms linked to prolonged device use. As Dr. Haley Backus explains, “Too much screen time can impact healthy vision development and lead to myopia progression in children and teenagers. We want to give parents tools, including the right eyewear, to protect their kids’ eyes.”
With the right combination of vision care, eyewear technology, and healthy habits, digital eye strain doesn’t have to limit your child’s comfort or learning.
Common Signs of Digital Eye Strain in Kids
- Frequent blinking or rubbing the eyes
- Headaches, especially after using devices
- Complaints of blurred or double vision
- Squinting or closing one eye when reading
- Irritability or reduced attention during screen use
How Eyewear Can Help Prevent Eye Strain
Modern eyewear offers specialized features to help reduce digital eye strain in children:
- Blue Light Filtering Lenses: Limit exposure to high-energy light emitted by screens, which may disrupt sleep and contribute to eye fatigue.
- Anti-Reflective Coatings: Reduce glare from screens and surrounding lighting, improving visual comfort.
- Accurate Prescriptions: Prevents the eyes from working harder than necessary to focus on near or distant objects.
- Specialized Lens Designs: Certain lenses relieve accommodative stress, making it easier for children to shift focus between different viewing distances.
Dr. Backus adds,
“The right pair of glasses can make a huge difference in a child’s comfort and eye health, especially if they’re spending several hours a day on screens.”
Tips for Managing Screen Time at Home
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule—every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.
- Keep screens at least an arm’s length away.
- Adjust lighting to minimize glare.
- Encourage regular breaks with outdoor activities.
Schedule a Digital Eye Strain Evaluation in Port Colborne
Digital eye strain can interfere with learning, focus, and even mood, making it harder for children to succeed in today’s tech-driven world. The good news is that a tailored vision care plan and the right eyewear can reduce these issues significantly. We believe in giving kids the tools they need to keep their eyes healthy while keeping up with school and activities.
At Lakeside Vision Centre, we can evaluate your child’s vision, discuss their daily screen habits, and recommend eyewear options designed for digital comfort. Call us at 855-215-5705 to book your appointment. Together, we can ensure your child enjoys the benefits of technology without sacrificing eye health.
FAQs
How can I tell if my child needs special glasses for screen use?
If your child often complains of tired eyes, headaches, or blurred vision after using devices, an exam can determine whether specialized eyewear would help.
Will blue light lenses prevent vision problems like myopia?
They can’t stop myopia, but they reduce strain that may worsen focusing issues and improve visual comfort.
Does every child need computer glasses?
Not all children require them, but they’re highly beneficial for kids who spend multiple hours a day on screens or show symptoms of eye strain.