Half of Parents Don’t Know Screen Time Damages Their Kids’ Vision

The following is excerpted from an online article posted by StudyFinds.

Half of parents are blind to how much screen time can damage their children’s vision, according to a new poll. Researchers from the University of Michigan say parents overlook simple steps to protect their child’s eyesight, such as wearing blue-light blocking glasses and making their children play outdoors more.

Studies show spending more hours on smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices and less time outdoors is harmful.

“Many parents may not be aware of both the short and long-term health issues linked to excessive screen time, including its effect on children’s eyes,” says the director of the poll Sarah Clark in a university release.

“Our findings suggest that some parents may have inaccurate perceptions of activities that affect their child’s eye health and vision and how to minimize risks.”

The findings come from a nationally-representative survey of 2,002 parents of children between three to 18 across the U.S. One in seven say their child has not had a vision test in two years.

During the pandemic, studies show that screen time among young students soared among all age groups.

Ophthalmologists have warned of an epidemic of nearsightedness, or myopia, across the world. It can lead to more serious eye problems later in life. The condition in children has increased dramatically over the past 30 years. Studies suggest spending more time outdoor protect against weakening eyesight.

U.S. health experts recommend no more than two hours of screen time a day for young children older than two.

Source: StudyFinds
https://www.studyfinds.org/parents-screen-time-kids-vision/