The Impact of Screen Time on Children's Vision and Myopia

Technology is everywhere, from classrooms to living rooms, and screens have become an unavoidable part of daily life. While digital devices provide incredible learning opportunities, they also present a growing concern for children’s eye health—especially in Elkhorn, where families juggle school, sports, and screen time. One of the most significant risks associated with prolonged screen use is myopia (nearsightedness). This condition, which makes distant objects appear blurry, is becoming more common among children at younger ages.

How Screen Time Contributes to Myopia

When children spend hours focusing on screens or books up close, their eyes adapt to this near work, which can contribute to the elongation of the eyeball, a key characteristic of myopia. In Elkhorn and surrounding areas, where families experience long winters and children may spend more time indoors, the challenge of limiting screen time becomes even greater. With virtual learning, gaming, and social media all competing for their attention, kids are spending less time outdoors—another factor linked to the progression of myopia.

Recognizing the Signs and Symptoms of Myopia in Children

Recognizing the signs of myopia in children is crucial for early intervention and effective management. Parents should watch for common symptoms, such as squinting, frequent headaches, or complaints of blurry vision when looking at distant objects like classroom whiteboards or road signs.  Children with myopia may also hold books, tablets, or screens unusually close to their faces or struggle to see clearly while playing sports. You might notice them rubbing their eyes often, blinking excessively, or avoiding activities that require sharp distance vision. If your child exhibits any of these signs, scheduling a comprehensive eye exam at Skyline Vision Care can help detect myopia early and explore treatment options to slow its progression.

Why Myopia Management Matters

Many parents assume that getting a stronger glasses prescription every year is just part of growing up. But what if there was a way to slow down myopia progression and protect your child’s long-term eye health?

At Skyline Vision Care, we offer myopia management options tailored to the needs of Elkhorn families. Instead of just correcting blurry vision, these treatments aim to reduce the rate at which myopia worsens. This is important because higher levels of myopia increase the risk of serious eye conditions later in life, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and early cataracts.

What Can Parents Do?

If you’re worried about your child’s screen time and vision, here are a few steps you can take:

• Encourage outdoor play: Studies show that children who spend more time outdoors have a lower risk of developing myopia.

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes of screen time, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

• Limit recreational screen time: Set boundaries for gaming, social media, and TV, especially before bedtime.

• Schedule a comprehensive eye exam: Myopia can progress silently, so routine checkups are essential for early intervention.

Protect Your Child’s Vision at Skyline Vision Care

As screen time becomes a bigger part of daily life, it’s more important than ever to stay proactive about your child’s eye health. Recognizing the early signs of myopia and taking steps to manage it can make a lasting difference in their vision and overall well-being. We’re committed to helping families in Elkhorn find the best solutions to slow myopia progression and protect their child’s eyesight for the future.

If you’ve noticed changes in your child’s vision or want to learn more about myopia management, schedule an appointment with Skyline Vision Care. Visit our office in Elkhorn, Nebraska, or call (402) 446-4600 to book a pediatric eye exam today.