The effects of
COVID-19 in Australia have been far-reaching, and while children have been less
susceptible to the disease, they have been impacted in different ways.
For instance,
what effect have extended periods of digital learning had on children’s eye care
and the long-term health of their vision?
What problems are caused by excessive screen time?
The problems
that can result from children spending too much time
viewing screens include eye strain, leading to sore eyes and an itchy or burning sensation.
Eyes may also become overly dry, which means that there is not a clear and stable
tear film on the eye’s surface.
Furthermore,
children spending extended time indoors means that their eyes are not getting
sufficient exposure to daylight, which can lead to nearsightedness.
How can parents successfully limit children’s screen time?
There are a number of strategies that parents can use to limit children’s screen time, especially during COVID-19 when they’re engaged in digital learning.
Screen time limits
You should set limits on how much time children spend on screens each day — and stick to them. Establishing specific times at which screens can be used is useful, as are the time management apps available for iOS and Android devices.
Get devices out of the bedroom
Don’t allow children to have a TV, phone or other devices in their bedroom at night. You might also consider ‘screen-free zones’ in the house, along with prohibiting screen use for 1 to 2 hours before bedtime.
Dr. Swati Sinkar is a highly experienced Paediatric Ophthalmologist in Adelaide. Dr Swati consults at Eyemedics (Wayville), Kingswood Eye Centre, Salisbury Eye Clinic and Mount Gambier Eye Specialists.
In order to see Dr Sinkar you will first need a referral from your
GP. Once you have this, you can
then arrange an appointment directly with any of the clinics at which she
consults (your GP or optometrist may do this on your behalf), or you can email to find out more
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