In Hawaii, technology is part of everyday life—both at home and in the classroom. But many parents underestimate just how much time their children spend on phones, tablets, and computers. A national survey found that while most kids ages 10–17 use digital devices for at least three hours a day, less than half of parents think that’s the case. This gap is concerning for Dr Sherry Wong and Dr. Tracie Inouchi, because it may cause parents to miss the early warning signs of vision problems linked to heavy screen use.
Digital Eye Strain in Children
Spending long hours on digital devices can lead to digital eye strain. Kids may feel burning, itchy, or tired eyes, headaches, blurred vision, or trouble focusing.
Simple Steps for Healthier Eyes
To help protect their vision, children can follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. Other easy tips include:
Keep screens slightly below eye level and about 20–28 inches away.
Reduce glare by adjusting the screen or moving away from bright windows.
Match the room lighting to the screen brightness.
Use larger font sizes to avoid squinting.
Remember to blink often to prevent dry eyes.
Blue Light Concerns
Eye doctors are also keeping a close watch on the impact of blue light from digital screens. Early research shows too much exposure could contribute to eye strain and may play a role in more serious conditions later in life.
Eye Exams for Keiki
The American Optometric Association recommends that children have their first eye exam around 6 months old, another before age 3, and yearly exams through age 18. At Simply Eyes Hawaii in Honolulu, we provide comprehensive eye care for keiki and teens to help protect their vision in today’s digital world.