May262025
Child using tablet with parental screen time guidance

Screen Time and Your Eyes: 5 Tips Every Kid Should Know This Summer

Summer holidays are here! And while that means more time for fun, games, and relaxing, it also means more screen time. Whether it’s playing video games, watching online videos, or scrolling through apps, kids tend to spend a lot more time in front of screens during the holidays.

But here’s something many parents don’t realise right away: too much screen time can affect a child’s eyes. Dryness, blurry vision, headaches, and even trouble sleeping can all stem from too much screen use. That’s why it’s important to teach children how to limit screen time and protect their eyes, especially during summer.

In this blog, we’ll explore why it matters and share 5 simple, practical tips every child (and parent) should know to enjoy the season without overloading their eyes.

Why Does Screen Time Matter So Much?

Our eyes weren’t made to stare at bright screens all day. Tablets, phones, laptops, and even TVs can strain the eyes if used for long hours. This happens because kids tend to blink less while focusing, and their eyes stay fixed on a close-up object for too long. Over time, it can lead to what’s commonly known as digital eye strain.

Here’s what kids might experience:

  • Tired, sore, or itchy eyes
  • Blurred or double vision
  • Headaches
  • Difficulty focusing
  • Dry or watery eyes

And with increasing screen use, these problems are being reported at younger and younger ages. The good news? It’s totally manageable, if we know what to do.

Let’s jump into 5 practical tips to limit screen time and keep young eyes healthy this summer.

1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule

This one’s easy to remember and super effective. Ask your child to:

  • Look away from the screen every 20 minutes
  • Focus on something 20 feet away
  • For at least 20 seconds

Why does this help?

Because it gives the eyes a quick break and helps reduce strain. Make it a fun game! Set a timer or use a screen reminder app to gently nudge your child to take those breaks.

2. Set Daily Screen Limits (And Stick to Them)

Many parents want to limit screen time, but setting clear rules makes a big difference. Decide ahead:

  • How much time is okay for screens each day
  • Which parts of the day are screen-free (like during meals or right before bed)
  • What content is allowed

For young kids (aged 5–12), doctors recommend no more than 1 to 1.5 hours of recreational screen time a day. That means outside of schoolwork. And remember, it’s not just about how long, it’s also about when and how.

If you’re wondering how to limit screen time without tantrums, involve kids in making the rules! Give them choices within limits and let them feel part of the plan.

3. Create Screen-Free Zones at Home

Want an easy trick for reducing screen time? Change the environment.

Set up certain areas in the house where screens aren’t allowed:

  • The dining table
  • Bedrooms
  • Outdoors / play areas

Encourage your child to do other fun things in these zones, like reading, puzzles, board games, or just chatting with family. This helps reduce the urge to constantly reach for a screen, and brings back some much-needed balance to the day.

4. Keep the Screens at the Right Distance

It’s not just about how much time; how your child uses the screen matters too. Most kids tend to hold screens way too close to their faces, which increases eye strain.

Here’s what you can do:

  • Keep screens at least an arm’s length away
  • Make sure the screen is at or slightly below eye level
  • Reduce glare by adjusting the lighting in the room
  • Use screen filters or “night mode” in the evening
  • Choose bigger screens (like TVs or monitors) over small devices for longer viewing

5. Encourage Outdoor Time and Eye-Healthy Habits

Outdoor play is not only great for physical health, it’s essential for eye health too. Studies show that spending at least 2 hours outside daily can reduce the risk of myopia (nearsightedness), which is rising rapidly among children.

Encourage:

  • Playing in the garden or terrace
  • Riding a bike or scooter
  • Walking the dog
  • Playing catch or cricket

Also, teach your child basic eye hygiene:

  • To not rub the eyes with dirty hands
  • To wash hands after using gadgets
  • To blink often while using screens

All these small habits add up over time and help protect their vision in the long run.

Why It’s Important to Start Young

You might think it’s no big deal, they’re just kids. But the truth is, the habits formed now can shape how their eyes (and brains) develop for years to come.

When children learn how to reduce screen time in a healthy, positive way, they:

  • Sleep better
  • Feel less tired
  • Stay more active
  • Are less likely to need glasses early

And as a parent, that peace of mind is priceless.

A Note for Parents

We know it’s hard. Screens are everywhere: in schools, at home, and even in cars. Sometimes, screens can feel like lifesavers, especially during summer holidays. But it’s all about balance.

Here’s a small reminder: It’s not about zero screen time, it’s about smart screen time.

Model good behaviour, talk to your kids, and slowly introduce these changes. It doesn’t have to be perfect, just consistent.

Conclusion

Screen time is part of modern life, but too much of it can affect a child’s vision, sleep, mood, and energy. This summer, take a step back and focus on healthy habits that give your child’s eyes the break they deserve.

At Maxivision Eye Hospitals, we believe that good vision starts with good habits, especially when young. If your child has been spending more time on screens or is showing signs of eye strain, don’t wait. Schedule an eye check-up. And for specialised paediatric care, visit Little Eyes, our dedicated child-friendly eye care centre.

FAQs:

1. How much screen time is too much for kids?

For children aged 5 to 12, no more than 1 to 1.5 hours of recreational screen time is recommended per day.

2. What are the signs of digital eye strain in kids?

Redness, dry eyes, headaches, blurry vision, and rubbing eyes are common signs.

3. How can I limit screen time without causing arguments?

Involve kids in setting screen rules and offer screen-free alternatives like games, books, or outdoor play.

4. Is it okay to let my child watch TV instead of using a phone?

Yes. Watching TV from a safe distance is often better for the eyes than holding a phone too close.

5. Can screen time cause permanent eye damage?

While short-term effects are more common, poor habits over time can increase the risk of myopia and other vision issues.

6. Should I take my child for an eye check-up even if they don’t wear glasses?

Yes. Regular eye exams help catch issues early, even before symptoms appear.