A growing concern among doctors is that excessive smartphone and iPad use in children can lead to vision damage, including nearsightedness. According to Dr. Steve Gerber, Advanced Ophthalmology Michiana, the amount of nearsightedness is increasing in every child age group.
Dr. Gerber notes that screen time has a hypnotic effect on young children under 2, and intense up-close focus can even change the shape of their eyes. Prolonged screen time can cause serious problems years later, including retinal detachment, glaucoma, and macular damage.
To mitigate this risk, Dr. Gerber recommends:
– No screen time for children under 2
– Up to one hour a day of educational, high-quality videos for children aged 2-5
– Limiting screen time with the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes on a screen, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds
Outdoor activities and alternative hobbies, such as board games, are also encouraged. The World Health Organization projects that the amount of myopia will double in the next 20 to 25 years.
Parents are advised to take steps to limit their children’s screen time and prioritize eye health and well-being.
Source: https://www.wndu.com/2025/02/25/screen-time-concerns-whats-safe-amount-time-kids-using-smartphones-ipads