Video games and phones are now part of almost every child's day. According to Common Sense Media, children aged 8 to 12 spend about 5.5 hours a day on entertainment screens, and teenagers more than 8. The real question isn't “should we ban screens?” but how do we protect our children's eyes while they use them?
- Children rarely complain, so watch for eye rubbing and sitting too close to the screen.
- The 20-20-20 rule and regular breaks matter more than any pair of glasses.
- Daily outdoor play is linked to a lower risk of short-sightedness in children.
- Book a yearly eye test; it's free at every Barakat Optical branch.
Signs of Digital Eye Strain in Children
Children usually don't say their eyes feel tired, but they show signs that are easy to spot:
- Rubbing their eyes often during or after playing
- Sitting very close to the screen or TV
- Squinting to see the screen clearly
- Headaches or complaining of a tired head after long sessions
- Dry or red eyes, because blinking drops sharply while they concentrate on a game
The 20-20-20 Rule and Daily Habits That Protect Their Eyes
A simple rule eye doctors recommend: every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something about 6 metres (20 feet) away for 20 seconds. It relaxes the focusing muscles and brings blinking back to normal.
Do Blue Light Glasses Really Protect Your Child?
The American Academy of Ophthalmology states that blue light from screens does not cause permanent eye damage, and it does not recommend blue light glasses as medical protection. These lenses may cut glare and make sessions more comfortable, but real protection comes from regular eye tests, regular breaks, and comfortable, well-fitted glasses if your child needs a prescription.
Kids Square Blue
Aziz Square Black
Aziz Square Red
Aziz Black (2nd model)When Does Your Child Need an Eye Test?
- If you often notice any of the eye strain signs above
- If they sit very close to the TV or hold the phone right up to their face
- If their school results drop or they struggle to read the board
- Even with no symptoms, a yearly eye test is recommended for school-age children
Also read our guide to kids' glasses and when your child needs them, and for teen gamers, our gaming glasses and blue light guide.
FAQs
How much screen time is OK for my child each day?
There is no single number for every age. What matters most is regular breaks and daily time for physical activity and outdoor play.
Do blue light lenses prevent short-sightedness?
There is no strong evidence that they do. Real protection comes from regular eye tests, a sensible screen distance and enough time in natural daylight.
My child rubs their eyes a lot while gaming. Is that serious?
It's usually a sign of strain or dryness from blinking less. Try the 20-20-20 rule, and if it continues, see an optician.
Is the eye test free for children at Barakat Optical?
Yes. The eye test is free for all ages at every Barakat Optical branch.
Book a free test and ask our opticians what's best for your child's eyes, trusted in Saudi Arabia since 1980.
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