Rapid strides in technology and innovation have resulted in a significant shift in lifestyles, especially for children. As playgrounds give way to screens, it is impacting not only their physical well-being but also eye health. Excessive screen time can lead to a rise in myopia (nearsightedness), dry eyes, headaches, and blurry vision, amongst other problems. Myopia occurs when distant objects appear blurry, while nearby ones remain clear. Once considered a hereditary condition, it is now increasingly linked to lifestyle — particularly excessive screen exposure and reduced outdoor activity .



Children’s eyes are constantly focused on nearby objects, forcing the visual system to work harder for prolonged periods. This sustained “near work” without adequate breaks leads to eye strain , dryness, and in the long run, structural changes in the eye that cause myopia.



Compounding this is the sharp decline in outdoor play. Natural daylight exposure is known to release dopamine in the retina, a chemical that prevents excessive elongation of the eyeball — the root cause of myopia. Add to this a family history of glasses, and the risk multiplies.



Over the past decade, ophthalmologists across India have witnessed a sharp rise in cases of childhood myopia, echoing global trends. Research shows that children spending more than three hours a day on digital devices are twice as likely to develop visual fatigue or early myopia compared to those who spend more time outdoors.

However, in a digital first world, while screen time cannot be completely eliminated, here is how parents can limit screen time.



Encourage at least two hours of outdoor activity every day. Natural light is the best preventive medicine for young eyes. Whether it’s cycling, playing a sport, or simply walking outdoors, sunlight exposure helps regulate healthy eye growth and reduces the risk of developing myopia.



The World Health Organization specifically recommends far less sitting and more active play across the day, especially for those under five years of age. This aims to replace sedentary screen time with physical activity. Outdoor time brings a bonus—consistent evidence shows it helps prevent or slow childhood myopia. The goal is to build “outside first” habits after school and on weekends.



Besides this, parents can set limits on recreational screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding digital screens for children under two years and limiting non-academic screen time to under one hour for those aged 2–5. For older children, aim for balanced schedules with frequent breaks. Introduce the “20-20-20 rule” — every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds.

Designated mealtimes and the hour before bed can be encouraged as screen-free periods. Creative and social activities such as drawing, or playing board games can be introduced to reduce dependency on gadgets for entertainment. When screens are used, sit with your child, talk about what you’re watching. Co-viewing turns passive watching into a chance to teach critical thinking and online safety, and children are more receptive when you engage alongside them.



Parents can also leverage built-in controls: disable autoplay, turn off push notifications, set app and platform time limits, and schedule downtime. Keep default displays simple (even grayscale) to reduce pull. Pair these tools with clear, predictable consequences, and celebrate wins when children switch off without prompts—behaviour change sticks best with consistent structure and positive feedback. Guidance from pediatric groups underscores that structure—not just willpower—reduces overuse.



In a world where digital literacy is essential, parents play the most crucial role in ensuring digital wellness . Parents don’t have to ban screens to help their child thrive. Prioritize sleep, movement, and face-to-face time; keep screens out of bedrooms; and be present when media is on. The aim isn’t perfection—it’s a healthy mix that lets technology support, not steal, your child’s day.




Dr Arun Singhvi, Managing Director and CEO of ASG Eye Hospital