In today’s digital world, smartphones have become a regular part of daily life, not just for adults, but for children as well. Kids are using smartphones for everything from online learning and playing games to watching videos and connecting with friends. While technology certainly offers many benefits, too much screen time can harm children’s eye health. This growing issue is a concern for parents, teachers, and healthcare professionals who care about the well-being of young minds and bodies.
After the Covid-19 pandemic, many eye examinations among children have revealed a growing number of cases with complaints such as eyestrain, headache , frequent blinking,redness and eye rubbing. Most of these problems are associated with excessive use of smartphones, tablets, laptops. It is important to raise awareness among the people of Fiji about how we can control and overcome this situation to protect our children’s eyesight.
How smartphones can affect children’s eyes
Children’s eyes are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to the effects of too much screen time. One of the most common issues they face is digital eye strain, also known as Computer Vision Syndrome. This happens when the eyes get tired from focusing on screens for too long. Kids may experience eye fatigue, dryness, blurry vision, or even headaches after using phones, tablets, or computers for extended periods.
Another growing concern is myopia, or nearsightedness, a condition where distant objects appear blurry. Research shows that spending too much time looking at screens and not enough time outdoors can increase the risk of myopia. Natural outdoor light plays an important role in healthy eye development.
The blue light emitted from screens can also affect children’s sleep patterns. On top of that, children tend to blink less when using screens, which can cause their eyes to become dry and irritated. Because of dry eyes, children’s eyes can become very sensitive to light, making it difficult for them to open their eyes in bright light or sunlight. Due to the irritation, they may start rubbing their eyes frequently, which can cause corneal surface damage or irregularities. Over time, this can lead to conditions such as astigmatism or even keratoconus.
While these problems might seem small at first, over time they can have a real impact on a child’s vision, focus, school performance, and overall health. Encouraging regular screen breaks, outdoor play, and good eye habits can go a long way in protecting their growing eyes.
Why early attention matters
If these eye problems aren’t noticed and managed early, they can turn into long-term health concerns. Poor vision can affect a child’s ability to focus in class, play with others, and even their confidence. The younger a child starts using screens and the more time they spend on them, the greater the risk to their eye health. That’s why it’s so important to take preventative steps now.
What parents and teachers can do
The good news is that with a little awareness and action, adults can make a big difference. One of the most important things parents and teachers can do is lead by example. Children are observant and often copy what they see. If adults make time for reading, talking face-to-face, or going outside, kids are more likely to follow.
It’s also important to monitor screen time. Encouraging outdoor play is another key factor. Teaching kids the 20-20-20 rule, taking a break every 20 minutes to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, can help prevent digital eye strain, avoid rubbing eyes.
Creating screen-free zones at home, like during meals or in bedrooms, especially before bedtime, also supports better eye health and sleep. Regular eye check-ups are essential, if your child complains of headaches, squints often, or seems to struggle with reading or using screens.
Watch for warning signs
Parents and teachers should be aware of some common red flags that may indicate a child is having eye problems. These include frequent eye rubbing, squinting, holding screens too close to their face, or suddenly avoiding activities like reading. If a child becomes irritable or tired more often than usual, that could also be a sign of eye strain.
Prevention is always better
Just like teaching kids to read, ride a bike, or eat healthy, helping them build good digital habits is an important part of growing up. By setting healthy boundaries, encouraging regular outdoor time, and teaching proper screen use, adults can help protect children’s eyesight and promote overall health.
Balance today, brighter vision tomorrow
Smartphones aren’t the enemy, they’re useful tools. But, like any tool, they need to be used wisely. It’s up to parents, teachers, and caregivers to help children develop a healthy relationship with technology. Protecting their vision today helps support their learning, happiness, and confidence tomorrow. Let’s work together to give our kids a clear, bright future, starting with their eyes.
