How to Prevent Digital Eye Strain
24 activities , and have an overall negative effect on well-being .
Additionally , children may be using computer workstations that are set up for adults , which can be uncomfortable and contribute to eye strain and tech neck symptoms .
HOW PARENTS CAN HELP
Minimize screen time . Obviously , the best way to handle the negative side effects of digital intake would be to minimize it . Allowing a child ’ s eyes ( as well as the rest of their body ) to rest helps combat not only the negative physical side effects but also helps to hinder the addiction that we all know can come from too much screen time .
Offer opportunities to experience nature . By providing the opposite of what most technology gives - namely , natural light and colors , soothing sounds , exciting exchanges with wildlife and weather - you ’ ll teach your child to recharge by seeking out the beauty beyond the screen and in the world that we take for granted around us .
Teach how to comfortably use technology . We definitely don ’ t advise that children shouldn ’ t use any technology ; it ’ s unrealistic in today ’ s day and age , particularly when they are educated in a traditional setting . However , by giving tweens the tools to know how to sit comfortably without bending their necks down ( it is said that bending one ’ s neck at a 60-degree angle puts 60 pounds of pressure on the neck and back ), to hold their device properly in front of them ( but not too close to their face ), and to take frequent breaks , it will alleviate much of the problem .
Don ’ t allow technology use after a certain time of night . In order to allow the body to start winding down and get the proper night ’ s sleep , be sure to implement a “ screens off ” time every night . The best way to know that your child will stick to this ? Don ’ t keep devices in their rooms , but have a single docking station in a common area of your house . And if you ’ ve fallen into the habit of using cell phones as alarm clocks , try buying a traditional one for each bedroom instead .
Set time limits and stick to them . It may be an uphill battle , but use the parental control settings on your child ’ s phone and devices . You can also set a physical timer as a reminder to yourself that it ’ s time they move on to another activity . Have a list or even kit of alternative activities to offer - and not just mundane things like chores or homework , although they could be included - that kids can go to when the devices are shut down .
Model proper behavior . Here ’ s the tough part . How do we expect our kids to listen to us and respect our suggestions if we don ’ t take them ourselves ? Yup . We need to start cutting back on device usage ourselves . We need to be more present and find our own alternatives to our Internet use . We need to engage more with our children and not use our phones as alarms and go outside to enjoy the fresh air and green trees more . It ’ s a hard habit to break , but if we ’ re asking our children to do the same , we should be willing to give it a go ourselves .
While many of these tips may be unpopular with your child at first ( especially since every family has different technology rules and friends may have a more lax device experience than your child ), remind yourself that it ’ s in your child ’ s best and long-term interest . Be sure to keep the lines of communication open with each other so that they realize why you ’ re looking out for them - not just to be a downer .