Is Modern Screen Time Making Kids More Nearsighted?

Once upon a time, childhood was filled with scraped knees, tree climbing, and the occasional admonition to “go play outside.” Fast forward to today, and many children’s adventures take place on glowing rectangles—tablets, smartphones, laptops, and gaming consoles. While technology has opened extraordinary doors for learning and connection, it has also raised an important question for parents and eye care professionals alike: Is modern screen time contributing to increased nearsightedness in children?

At OC Optometry Group, we’ve been seeing a noticeable trend—more young patients diagnosed with myopia (commonly known as nearsightedness) at earlier ages than ever before. While genetics certainly play a role, lifestyle factors are increasingly part of the conversation, and screen time is at the center of it.

The Rise of Myopia in the Digital Age

Myopia occurs when the eye grows too long from front to back, causing distant objects to appear blurry. Globally, rates of childhood myopia have surged over the last few decades, particularly in urban and tech-forward societies. Researchers now estimate that by 2050, nearly half of the world’s population could be nearsighted.

So where do screens come in?

Extended near work—activities that require focusing up close for long periods—places sustained demand on the visual system. Screens encourage exactly that: hours of intense focus at a short distance, often without sufficient breaks. Add in reduced outdoor time, and the equation becomes even more concerning.

Why Outdoor Time Still Matters (A Lot)

One of the most compelling findings in modern vision science is the protective effect of outdoor time against myopia progression. Natural light appears to stimulate healthy eye development, while looking at distant objects allows the eyes to relax in ways screens simply don’t permit.

Children today spend significantly less time outdoors than previous generations, often trading sunlight for screen glow. While screens themselves are not inherently “evil,” the imbalance between digital activity and outdoor play is where trouble begins.

Signs Parents Should Watch For

Children don’t always know how to articulate vision problems. Some common red flags include:

Squinting to see the board at school
Sitting very close to screens or books
Frequent headaches or eye rubbing
Complaints of blurry distance vision

If any of these sound familiar, a comprehensive eye exam is essential.

A Balanced Approach to Screens and Sight

At OC Optometry Group, we believe the goal is balance, not elimination. Technology is here to stay, and it can be used wisely. We often recommend the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of near work, take a 20-second break and look at something at least 20 feet away. Encouraging daily outdoor play—ideally 1–2 hours—can also make a meaningful difference.

For children already diagnosed with myopia, modern optometry offers proactive solutions such as myopia management programs, including specialty contact lenses and customized treatment plans designed to slow progression.

Looking Ahead—Clearly

Screen time alone isn’t the villain of this story, but unchecked habits can quietly reshape how young eyes develop. With early detection, smart screen habits, and regular eye exams, we can help ensure that today’s digital-native kids grow up seeing the world clearly—both on and off the screen.

At OC Optometry Group, we’re here to partner with families in protecting lifelong vision, one thoughtful choice at a time.

Author

Alejandro Gallego Having joined us in 2025, Alejandro has quickly shown his adaptability and commitment. Knowing the importance of our practice as he has had several years of experience in other healthcare areas. Efforts to excellence are evident from day one. We’re excited to support him as he continues to grow within our organization.

Is Modern Screen Time Making Kids More Nearsighted?