Tips from ophthalmologists for protecting your kids' eyes during screen time

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, children between 8-18 years old spend up to nine hours each day looking at a screen for entertainment purposes. This year, with social distancing and virtual schooling necessary because of the COVID-19 pandemic, young people may be spending even more time looking at screens every day.

Lots of screen time can lead to digital eye strain and concerns of nearsightedness progression. With this in mind, Lurie Children's Division of Ophthalmology eye specialists have compiled some tips for good “screen hygiene.”

• Appropriate spacing: Try to keep your child's computer monitor about an adult arm's length away (goal: 18-24 inches) from their face and positioned at eye level with them sitting upright. This avoids the excessive eye strain that comes with focusing too close and promotes good posture.

• Appropriate lighting: Have good backlighting in the area your child is using the screen — such as open windows for sunlight or overhead room lighting that isn't too bright. Avoid dark or dimly lighted rooms or bright lights in front of their face or against the screen (e.g., desk lamp next to the monitor), which will cause uncomfortable glare.

• What about “blue light?”: There is no proven harm or toxicity that comes from blue light in screens. Blue-filter lenses are not necessary but may subjectively feel more comfortable. You can also adjust display settings to “warm” the screen away from harsher white/blue light that may lead to discomfort.

• The 20-20-20 Rule: Follow the 20-20-20 rule to avoid eye strain and fatigue that comes with prolonged near focusing. This allows the eyes to relax and “reset”:

Every 20 minutes, look away from the screen and off in the distance 20 feet … for 20 seconds.

• Blinking is important: Without realizing it, we likely don't blink as frequently as we should when staring at screens. Remind your child of the need to blink periodically. You could also use over-the-counter artificial tear drops or have a humidifier in the room to help prevent dry eyes.

• Don't rub your eyes: If your child's eyes feel irritated, advise that they avoid rubbing. This can aggravate the situation, and it's also important to avoid touching one's eyes, nose and mouth to mitigate the spread of germs.

• No screen time before bed: Avoid screen use just before bedtime, which can affect having good quality sleep.

• Play time: Remember to regularly get outside (weather permitting) and play!

• Children's health is a continuing series. This week's article is courtesy of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago. For more information, visit www.LurieChildrens.org.