Screen Time and Kids’ Vision: What Toronto Parents Need to Know
Is Screen Time Hurting Your Child’s Eyes?
In today’s digital world, screen time is a fact of life — even for the youngest kids.
From virtual classrooms and tablets to gaming and smartphones, children are spending more time than ever staring at screens. And while technology offers incredible learning and entertainment opportunities, it also brings new challenges for developing eyes.
At Bayview Vision, we’re seeing more and more children in Toronto with vision-related complaints linked directly to screen use.
So what do parents need to know? And how can you protect your child’s vision in a screen-filled world?
How Screens Affect Children’s Eyes
When kids focus on screens for extended periods — especially up close — it can lead to a cluster of symptoms known as digital eye strain (also called computer vision syndrome).
Unlike reading a book or playing outside, screen use demands intense visual concentration at a fixed distance. This can put strain on the eyes’ focusing and teaming systems, and even dry out the surface of the eyes due to reduced blinking.
Children may not be able to explain their discomfort — they just know they’re tired, irritable, or struggling to focus.
Common Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain in Children
Headaches, especially around the eyes or forehead
Blurred or fluctuating vision
Dry, itchy, or burning eyes
Squinting or rubbing the eyes
Trouble concentrating
Neck or shoulder pain from poor posture
Behavioral changes after screen use
If your child is spending more than two hours per day on screens (which is most children today), they may be at risk for digital eye strain — even if they have 20/20 vision.
What About Blue Light?
There’s a lot of buzz about blue light — the high-energy visible light emitted by screens and LEDs. While current research doesn’t show that blue light causes eye damage, it can contribute to:
Eye fatigue
Glare sensitivity
Disrupted sleep patterns (especially with evening screen use)
At Bayview Vision, we offer blue light filtering lenses as an option for kids who spend extended time on digital devices, especially if they experience discomfort or difficulty sleeping.
How to Protect Your Child’s Eyes from Screen Overuse
💡 The 20-20-20 Rule
Every 20 minutes, have your child look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. It’s a simple way to give the eyes a break.
📱 Create Tech-Free Zones
Encourage regular breaks from screens. Create no-device times during meals, before bed, and while doing outdoor activities.
💧 Use Artificial Tears If Needed
If dryness is a concern, preservative-free artificial tears can help.
📏 Check Ergonomics
Ensure screens are at eye level or slightly below. Avoid using devices while lying down.
👓 Consider Computer Glasses
For older kids or teens, anti-fatigue lenses and blue light filters can reduce strain during extended schoolwork or screen time.
Regular Eye Exams Matter More Than Ever
Many vision problems — including those caused or worsened by screen time — can go undetected without a comprehensive eye exam.
At Bayview Vision, we assess not only eyesight, but also how the eyes focus, move, and work together. For kids who are learning and growing in a digital environment, this kind of care is essential.
And remember — children’s eye exams are covered by OHIP in Ontario up to age 19!
Book Your Child’s Eye Exam in Toronto Today
If your child is experiencing screen-related discomfort or spends a lot of time on devices, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us at 416-487-5401 or book your pediatric eye exam online.
We’ll make sure your child’s eyes are healthy — and ready to take on the digital world with comfort and clarity.