Digital devices are everywhere, but how much is too much for your child’s eyes? Here’s what Dr. Stephanie Kong at Underhill Optometry wants parents in North York to understand.
Parents often worry that staring at screens all day—phones, tablets, laptops—is ruining their kids’ vision. It’s a fair concern. But the truth is more nuanced than you might expect.
At Underhill Optometry, we get this question a lot: “Is screen time bad for my child’s eyesight?” The answer? It’s not the screen itself—it’s what the screen replaces.
The Real Problem: Less Outdoor Time, More Close-Up Focus
Studies have shown that time spent outdoors plays a critical role in healthy vision development. Being outside gives the eyes a break from close-up tasks and encourages them to focus on far-away objects, which helps prevent myopia (nearsightedness).
Screens aren’t inherently harmful, but they keep kids indoors and glued to close-range activities. That combo may increase their risk of vision problems, especially if they’re already predisposed to issues like myopia or eye strain.
Here’s how screens can impact vision:
- Encourage long periods of near focus
- Reduce natural blinking (leading to dry eye symptoms)
- Disrupt sleep cycles when used before bed
- Replace time spent in natural light and distance viewing
Practical Screen-Time Tips for Healthier Vision
You don’t have to eliminate screens entirely. Instead, focus on how they’re used—and how often.
Here are a few eye-friendly guidelines we recommend to families in North York:
- Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.
- Encourage Outdoor Play: Aim for at least 1–2 hours of outdoor time per day. Natural light supports healthy eye growth and helps reduce the risk of developing myopia.
- Create Device-Free Zones Before Bed: Screen use in the hour before bedtime can interfere with sleep quality. Encourage winding down with books or calm activities instead.
- Watch for Signs of Eye Strain: Frequent rubbing, blinking, or squinting could indicate a vision problem. If your child complains of headaches or tired eyes, schedule an exam.
Remember, it’s not about being screen-free—it’s about being screen-smart.
Vision Exams for Kids in North York
If your child uses devices regularly—and most do—it’s wise to include vision exams as part of their routine health care. At Underhill Optometry, we know what to look for, and we offer:
- Personalized eye exams for school-aged kids
- Evaluations for digital eye strain and myopia progression
- Practical advice for safe screen habits
We’re here to help your child maintain comfortable, clear vision—without turning your home into a no-screen zone.
Concerned about screen time? Book your child’s next exam by requesting an /contact-us/appointment-request-form/ today. Our Dr. Stephanie Kong will walk you through everything you need to know.