The use of digital devices has become common in education, entertainment, and connection. Looking to computer, tablet, or cell phone screens for extended periods increases the amount of digital screen use. The increasing screen time can lead to digital eye strain and put your child’s ocular health in danger.

According to a study by the American Academy of Paediatrics in June 2020, many parents are unaware of the time spent by their children on digital devices like smartphones and iPads. Moreover, 35% of them underestimated the screen time that their child was getting.

Increased digital screen time can cause issues such as irritated eyes, headaches, and poor vision among children. Too much up-close work including the use of cell phones and digital devices has been linked to the occurrence of near-sightedness or Myopia among children and adolescents.

When technology and digital devices play a central role in our lives, eliminating their use can be hard. However, we can tap into the same technology to help our kids develop better digital device habits.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that young toddlers below the age of 18 to 24 months should avoid digital media other than video chatting. For pre-schoolers, around the age of 2 to 5 years, the screen time should be limited to just one hour per day of co-engaging and high-quality programming.

To encourage better digital device habits, you can encourage kids to take frequent breaks from screens. Use the following measures for your kids to develop healthier relationships with their devices:

• Avoid solo use of digital media. Use it together with your child.
• The use of digital devices should be very limited and only when an adult is standing by to talk, teach, or co-view.
• Choose media that is interactive, non-violent, educational, and prosocial.
• Do not feel pressured to introduce technology early to your kids.
• Check your children’s media use for health and safety.
• Discourage the use of entertainment media while doing homework.
• Plan media-free times together such as outdoor plays, leisure activities, and family dinners.
• Share your rules for digital devices with caregivers or grandparents to help ensure that the rules are consistent.
• Consider restricting the use of phones, tablets, and computers for at least 30 minutes before bed. Studies show that the use of digital media at night can interfere with sleep quality.
• Encourage kids to use social media for good cause.
• Discuss with your kids about proper usage of digital devices and technology.
• Set screen time limits.
• Explore offline activities together rather than using digital devices.
• Create a bedtime rule without any exception. When digital devices are used during bedtime, it prevents kids from relaxing before going to bed.
• Do not use technology as a tool to calm down your child.

Preserve offline experiences and encourage your kids to spend time outdoors as much as possible. Spending more time outdoors can decrease the risk of new Myopia onset in children by 50% reduced risk with an extra 76 minutes outside time per day, corresponding to 8.9 hours per week.