The Best Practices for Kids to Avoid Computer Vision Syndrome

In today's digital age, children spend more time than ever in front of screens—whether for school, entertainment, or socializing. While technology offers many benefits, excessive screen time can lead to Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), a condition that causes eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, and dry eyes. At Cleary Square Eyecare, we want to ensure that kids develop healthy screen habits to protect their vision. Here are some best practices to help prevent CVS in children.
 

Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

The 20-20-20 rule is an easy way to reduce eye strain. Encourage your child to take a 20-second break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away. This helps relax the eye muscles and prevent fatigue from prolonged screen use.
 

Adjust Screen Time and Encourage Outdoor Play

Limiting screen time is one of the best ways to prevent CVS. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children aged 6 and older have consistent limits on screen time, while younger kids should have even more restricted access. Encouraging outdoor play and activities that involve looking at distant objects can help balance screen exposure and promote overall eye health.
 

Maintain Proper Screen Positioning

A child’s digital device should be positioned at eye level and about 18–24 inches away from their eyes. Keeping screens too close forces their eyes to work harder, increasing the risk of strain and discomfort. Ensure that the top of the screen is slightly below eye level, which helps keep the eyes in a natural position.
 

Reduce Glare and Increase Contrast

Bright screens and poor lighting can exacerbate eye strain. To minimize glare, adjust the brightness of the screen to match the surrounding environment and use anti-glare filters when necessary. Additionally, increasing text contrast (dark text on a light background) can make reading easier on the eyes.
 

Use Blue Light Filters

Excessive exposure to blue light from screens can contribute to eye strain and disrupt sleep cycles. To reduce the impact, activate the blue light filter on digital devices or invest in blue-light-blocking glasses designed for children. This is especially important for evening screen use.
 

Schedule Regular Eye Exams

Routine eye exams are essential for detecting early signs of eye strain, nearsightedness, or other vision issues. A comprehensive eye exam at Cleary Square Eyecare can help determine if your child needs vision correction or additional recommendations for managing screen time effectively.
 

Protect Your Child’s Vision Today

Computer Vision Syndrome can significantly impact a child's comfort and focus, but following these best practices can help reduce eye strain and support healthy vision. Our team is here to provide expert eye care and personalized recommendations to keep your child's eyes healthy for years to come!
 

If your child experiences frequent headaches, eye discomfort, or blurred vision after screen use, schedule an eye exam with Cleary Square Eyecare. Contact our office in Hyde Park, Massachusetts, by calling (617) 361-0618 to book an appointment today.