Addressing common issues related to excessive screen time

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children aged 6 and older should have consistent limits on screen time, with consistent bedtimes and wake times, and no screen time for at least 1 hour before bedtime. However, these recommendations should be tailored to the individual child and their needs, and parents should consider factors such as the content of the screen time, the quality of the interactions with the screen, and the overall balance of the child's daily activities. It's important for parents to set limits on screen time and to provide a variety of engaging and enriching activities, both on and off screens. Excessive screen time can lead to eye strain and other vision problems.

Here are some potential ways to tackle eye strain among kids:

• Encourage regular breaks: Encourage kids to take regular breaks from screens and other close-up activities to give their eyes a rest.

• Limit screen time: Set limits on the amount of time kids spend using screens (including TVs, computers, tablets, and smartphones) and encourage them to engage in other activities that don't involve screens.

• Adjust the lighting: Make sure the lighting in the room is not too bright or too dim, and avoid glare on screens.

• Encourage outdoor activities: Outdoor activities, such as playing sports or going for a walk, can provide a break from screens and help reduce eye strain.

• Encourage good posture: Encourage kids to sit up straight and maintain a comfortable distance from screens to reduce eye strain.

• Use the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, encourage kids to take a 20-second break and look at something at least 20 feet (6 meters) away to reduce eye strain.

• Adjust screen settings: The brightness and contrast settings on screens should be adjusted to reduce glare and eye strain.

• Use blue light-blocking glasses if possible: Blue light from screens can contribute to eye strain, so consider using blue light-blocking glasses to reduce exposure.

• Visit an eye doctor: If your child is experiencing persistent eye strain, visit an eye doctor for an evaluation and advice.

For a 7-year-old, a healthy amount of screen time would be no more than 2 hours per day. Do you agree? Is this even possible?