From virtual classrooms and homework on tablets to gaming, texting, and streaming—screens are now a daily part of life for kids and students of all ages. While technology has many benefits, increased screen time can take a toll on young eyes. At Lake Norman Eye Care in Mooresville, NC, Dr. Mason Williams, OD, and Dr. Angela Harris, OD, frequently see children and teens experiencing eye strain, headaches, and blurry vision related to screen use.
The good news? Digital eye strain is often preventable with a few simple habits and the right eye care.
What Is Digital Eye Strain?
Digital eye strain (also called computer vision syndrome) occurs when the eyes work harder than usual to focus on screens for long periods. Kids may not always know how to describe what they’re feeling, but common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Tired or burning eyes
- Blurry vision (especially after screen time)
- Squinting or rubbing eyes
- Difficulty focusing on schoolwork
- Neck and shoulder pain
If your child is spending hours a day on a device, these symptoms are more common than you might think.
Why Kids Are Especially at Risk
Children often don’t realize their eyes are strained—and they rarely take breaks on their own. Smaller screens, closer viewing distances, and reduced blinking while focusing on games or homework can all worsen eye fatigue. Add in undiagnosed vision problems, and screen time becomes even more challenging for young eyes.
That’s why routine eye exams are so important, especially for growing students.
Tips to Reduce Eye Strain for Students and Kids
1. Follow the 20-20-20 Rule
One of the easiest and most effective habits: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds, and get some good blinks in!
Set a reminder, use a timer, or make it a family habit during homework and screen use.
2. Encourage Frequent Blinking
Kids blink less when staring at screens, which can cause dryness and irritation. Remind them to blink often, especially during long study sessions or gaming.
If dryness persists, Dr. Williams or Dr. Harris may recommend child-safe artificial tears.
3. Adjust Screen Position and Lighting
- Keep devices about arm’s length away
- Avoid glare from windows or overhead lighting
- Increase text size instead of leaning closer
A simple adjustment to the workspace can significantly reduce eye strain.
4. Limit Recreational Screen Time
While screens are often necessary for school, recreational screen time should still be balanced with outdoor play, reading, and other activities. Studies show that outdoor time may also help support healthy vision development in children.
5. Make Sure Your Child Has the Right Glasses
Many children struggle in school simply because they can’t see clearly—or because their eyes are working too hard to focus.
Specialized computer or blue-light filtering lenses may help reduce eye fatigue for students who spend long hours on screens. At Lake Norman Eye Care, we customize recommendations based on your child’s specific visual needs.
6. Don’t Skip Annual Eye Exams
Even if your child passes a school vision screening, they may still have issues like eye teaming problems, focusing difficulties, or mild prescriptions that affect learning and comfort.
Comprehensive eye exams allow us to:
- Address digital eye strain before it impacts school performance
- Detect vision problems early
- Monitor eye health and development
When Should You Schedule an Eye Exam?
Consider booking an appointment if your child:
- Complains of headaches or tired eyes
- Avoids reading or homework
- Holds devices very close
- Has trouble concentrating in class
- Has never had a comprehensive eye exam
Early intervention can make a big difference—both academically and visually.
Caring for Young Eyes in Mooresville, NC
At Lake Norman Eye Care, Dr. Mason Williams and Dr. Angela Harris are passionate about helping students and families protect their vision in today’s digital world. We proudly serve Mooresville and the Lake Norman community, providing comprehensive eye exams for children, teens, and adults.
If your child is spending more time on screens and showing signs of eye strain, we’re here to help.
📞 Call Lake Norman Eye Care today or
📅 Schedule an eye exam online to keep your child’s eyes healthy, comfortable, and ready to learn.
👨⚕️ Dr. Mason Williams & Dr. Angela Harris
