By Dr. Stephen Taylor & Dr. Stasiuk
When my child uses a handheld device, he holds it really close to his face. I feel like this can’t be good for his eyes. Is that true, or just a myth?
Answer: IIt’s understandable to be concerned about your child’s eye health, especially with the increasing use of handheld digital devices. When a child holds a device very close to their face, it can indeed have some implications for their vision and overall health.
Firstly, holding a device too close can lead to eye strain. Although children have tremendous focusing flexibility when compared to adults, the eyes still have to work harder to focus on the screen at such a short distance.
Over time, this can cause symptoms like headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort. Additionally, some studies indicate that indoor play-and the prolonged close-up work associated with it- is correlated to the development of myopia, or nearsightedness, which is becoming increasingly common among children who spend more time inside.
Another concern is the blue light emitted by screens. While the research is still ongoing, there is some evidence to suggest that excessive exposure to blue light at close proximity can affect sleep
patterns and contribute to digital eye strain.
To mitigate these risks, encourage your child to follow the 20- 20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. This helps to relax the eye muscles and reduce strain. Also, ensure that the device is held at a comfortable distance (ideally about an arm’s length away) and at an angle that does not induce an extreme head-forward tilt. Let’s help them develop good postural habits early on to avoid developing the dreaded “tech neck” and associated health problems.
Lastly, your child could also be struggling to see clearly, and is compensating by holding their device closer than what would be ideal. I recommend scheduling an eye exam for your child, as regular eye exams are crucial for detecting early signs of visual health changes. During the exam, we can discuss any specific concerns you have and provide personalized advice to help protect your child’s vision.
At Mayfair Optometric Clinic we provide a welcoming environment for patients to receive eye exams and pick out the perfect eyewear that works for each individual. Please give us a call to book your appointment with Dr. Peddle, Dr. Stephen Taylor or Dr. Stasiuk.
