What are the visual risks to consider?

In our hyperconnected society, screens are omnipresent. Phones, tablets, computers, and televisions are part of everyday life, including for children. While these digital tools can be educational and entertaining, they also raise important questions, particularly regarding the visual health of young people. What are the risks associated with screen use for children's eyes? How can they be prevented? A closer look.

Screens and Children: A worrying increase in visual problems among young people.

Experts are noting a significant increase in visual problems among children. In particular, myopia (blurred distance vision) is increasing dramatically. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), half of the world's population could be nearsighted by 2050, and prolonged exposure to screens is one of the main factors.

Why? When a child spends long hours in front of a screen, their eyes are constantly strained to see up close, which can impair normal eye development and promote myopia. In addition, the blue light emitted by screens is suspected of contributing to eye strain and, potentially, long-term damage to the retina.

Screens and Children: Symptoms of Eyestrain

Excessive screen use can lead to eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome. Here are the signs to look out for in children:

> Red or irritated eyes: Decreased blinking in front of a screen leads to dry eyes.

> Frequent headaches: Linked to excessive tension in the eye muscles.

> Blurry or double vision: Resulting from prolonged effort to adjust focus.

> Difficulty concentrating; visual fatigue can make learning more difficult.

Screens and Children: Impacts on Visual Development

Children, especially the youngest, are in a phase of rapid development of their visual system. Overexposure to screens can disrupt this process. Experts point out that until the age of 6, a child's eyes are particularly sensitive to their environment. Excessive screen use can reduce the visual stimulation needed to explore the real world, which can affect hand-eye coordination, distance perception, and other essential skills.

Screen Use and Children: How to Protect Children's Eyes from Screens?

The good news is that there are solutions to limit the visual risks associated with screens. Here are some practical tips:

> Apply the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, have your child look at an object 20 feet (about 6 meters) away for at least 20 seconds. This helps reduce eye strain.

> Limit screen time: According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, no screen time before age 2, and no more than one hour per day for children ages 2 to 5. For older children, prioritize outdoor activities.

> Encourage natural light: Regular exposure to daylight is beneficial for eye health and can reduce the risk of myopia.

> Configure screens: Reduce brightness, use blue light filters, and maintain a distance of 30 cm between the screen and the eyes.

> Encourage frequent breaks: Alternate screen activities with physical play or reading on paper.

Screens and Children: When to See a Specialist?

Regularly monitoring children's visual health is essential. A visit to the ophthalmologist is recommended from the age of 3, and then every two years, even if there are no symptoms. If a child complains of headaches, squints to look into the distance, or seems to have difficulty following class, it is best to consult a doctor promptly.

Screens are an integral part of modern life, and it would be unrealistic to try to eliminate them completely. However, supervised and moderate use can significantly reduce visual risks for children. As parents and educators, it is crucial to adopt a proactive approach, combining prevention, awareness, and medical monitoring. After all, preserving the visual health of young children means offering them a better quality of life for the future.