Whether it is online learning, video games, or smartphone scrolling, most children today spend hours a day looking at screens. While technology has brought incredible educational tools and entertainment into our homes, it has also raised concerns among eye care professionals about the long-term effects on children's vision.
At Accurate Family Vision, we offer dedicated kids eye care to help families in Gilbert address growing concerns around screen time eye strain and myopia in children. Here is what every parent should know.
Why Kids Need Routine Eye Exams
Many parents assume they will know if their child is having trouble seeing, but the truth is that kids rarely report symptoms because they think their experience is normal. Children adapt quickly and may not realize they are squinting, holding devices too close, or avoiding visual tasks.
That is why annual children’s eye exams are essential. A pediatric eye doctor in Gilbert can detect vision problems long before they interfere with school, sports, or behavior. These early exams help identify issues like astigmatism, lazy eye, and even early signs of progressive myopia that may be linked to screen use.
The Impact of Digital Screens on Vision
Prolonged screen time affects children's visual systems in a few key ways. When kids spend hours focusing on a device up close, their eyes do not get the chance to adjust to distance vision, and their blink rate decreases, which can lead to dryness and fatigue.
More importantly, the increase in screen use has been linked to a rise in myopia in children. Myopia, or nearsightedness, causes distant objects to appear blurry and often progresses throughout childhood. High levels of near work, like reading on a tablet or gaming, are now considered one of the major risk factors.
This combination of eye strain and myopia makes proactive kids eye care more important than ever.
Signs a Child May Need an Eye Exam
Since children do not always verbalize their symptoms, it is helpful for parents to look out for behavioral cues. If your child is showing any of the following signs, it may be time to schedule an eye exam for kids:
- Squinting or closing one eye
- Sitting very close to screens or books
- Holding devices close to the face
- Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
- Headaches, especially after reading or screen time
- Complaints of tired eyes or blurry vision
- Avoiding activities that require seeing clearly at a distance
These could be signs of vision issues, eye strain, or myopia progression. The earlier these are addressed, the better the long-term outcomes.
What to Expect at a Pediatric Eye Exam
We provide child-friendly exams designed to make your child feel comfortable while getting a thorough assessment of their visual health.
Our pediatric eye doctor in Gilbert uses age-appropriate tools and a calm, reassuring approach to check for:
- Visual acuity
- Eye alignment and tracking
- Depth perception and focusing ability
- Signs of eye disease or strain
- Prescription needs for glasses or myopia management
Whether it is your child’s first eye exam or their annual checkup, we tailor the experience to their age and needs. If glasses are needed, we offer a wide selection of kids glasses in Gilbert that fit comfortably and hold up to everyday life.
Helpful At-Home Eye-Health Habits
There are simple steps parents can take at home to support healthy vision. Encouraging these habits early can reduce digital eye strain and help manage the risk of myopia.
- Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
- Encourage outdoor playtime each day to give eyes a break from screens
- Set time limits on recreational screen use, especially before bed
- Use proper lighting and posture when using devices or reading
- Ensure children wear their glasses or contacts as prescribed
These small changes can make a big difference in long-term eye comfort and development.
Book Your Child’s Eye Exam at Accurate Family Vision
Every child deserves clear, comfortable vision and a healthy start to their eye care journey. At Accurate Family Vision, we are proud to provide expert pediatric eye care in a setting that families trust.
Schedule your child’s eye exam with our friendly team in Gilbert and give them the support they need for success in and out of the classroom.