The Effects of Screen Time on Kids’ Eyes

For better or worse, screen time for kids is part of everyday life. From tablets and smartphones to laptops and gaming consoles, our children and young people are spending more time than ever looking at screens. And while technology supports learning and connection, excessive use can also affect kids’ eye health. Understanding the risks and knowing when to seek help can protect your child’s long-term vision.

FACTS ON THIS PAGE

What’s the Average Amount of Screen Time for Australian Children?

According to an, recommend:

  • Children under two years of age should have no screen time.
  • Children aged 2–5 years should have no more than one hour of screen time per day.
  • Children and young people aged 5–17 years should limit sedentary recreational screen time to no more than two hours per day, excluding screen use for schoolwork.

Despite these recommendations, the ABS reports that many Australian children are spending more hours than ever on screens — influenced by digital learning, entertainment platforms, and social interaction online. As a result, excessive screen time is a common concern for parents and carers.

What Impact Does Screen Time Have on Children’s Eyes?

Prolonged screen use can place stress on the eyes, particularly when children focus on close-up devices for long periods without breaks. One of the most common issues is digital eye strain (or computer vision syndrome), which occurs when the eyes work harder to maintain focus.

Symptoms of digital eye strain include tired or sore eyes, dryness, blurred vision, headaches, and difficulty shifting focus from near to far objects. While screen use has not been proven to cause permanent eye damage, long periods of near work combined with less time outdoors have been linked to a higher risk of myopia in children (short-sightedness).

Research suggests that children who spend more time outdoors and take regular breaks from screens are less likely to develop vision problems related to near-focus activities. For more on screen time guidelines, see the Better Health Channel.

Signs of Eye Strain and Damage in Kids

Parents and carers should watch for signs that may indicate eye strain or developing vision issues, such as:

  • Frequent eye rubbing or blinking
  • Complaints of sore, tired, or dry eyes
  • Headaches after screen use
  • Blurry vision or trouble seeing the whiteboard at school
  • Squinting or sitting very close to screens
  • Avoiding reading or screen-based tasks

*If these symptoms occur regularly or worsen over time, it’s important to arrange a children’s eye test.

When Should Children’s Eyes Be Tested?

Routine eye checks are an important part of overall health care, especially for children who use screens daily. Vision problems are not always obvious, and children may not realise their vision is changing. Eye testing is recommended if symptoms of eye strain persist, if learning or concentration is affected, or if there is a family history of vision issues. Early assessment allows concerns such as myopia or focusing difficulties to be identified and managed promptly. It’s also important to have children’s eyes tested before they begin primary school.

Supporting Eye Health at Laurimar Medical Centre

At our experienced medical team can assess your child’s eye health, provide advice on managing screen use, and guide you on next steps if further care is needed. Contact us today to book an appointment and protect your child’s vision now and for the future.

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