What Is the Long-Term Impact of Virtual Learning on Children's Eyes?
Kids, like adults, are spending more time online. At some point during the COVID-19 pandemic, many children attended school via Zoom and completed assignments online. The trend toward more screen time is likely to continue even after everyone returns to the classroom.
We already know that prolonged screen time can cause digital eye strain as well as dry eye symptoms, among other problems in children and adults.
Dry Eyes
Spending a long time in front of screens can impact how quickly our tears evaporate, because we blink around 66% less when using a computer compared to other daily activities. When tears evaporate too quickly and aren't replenished with blinking, our eyes start to feel dry and gritty. So remember to blink every few seconds to prevent your eyes from drying out!
Blue Light Exposure
Screens, such as those that appear on computers, phones and tablets emit blue light. Recent studies have shown that overexposure to blue light can damage the retinal cells at the back of your eyes. Excess blue light has also been shown to disrupt the circadian rhythms that regulate our sleep patterns.
Digital Eye Strain
Nearly 60% of people who routinely use computers or digital devices experience symptoms of digital eye strain. Symptoms include eye fatigue and discomfort, dry eye, headaches, blurred vision, neck and shoulder pain, and eye twitching.
How to Make Virtual Learning Safer For Your Child
The following tips can lessen the impact of screens on your child's eyes:
- Reduce overall screen time
- Encourage frequent breaks
- Use accessories that filter blue light (for example, blue light glasses)
- Schedule regular eye exams
If you are concerned about the effect of virtual learning and screen time on your child's eyes, or if you're due for a checkup, schedule an eye doctor's appointment at Grove City Vision Center in Grove City.