from University of Michigan
It is commonly known that too much screen time for kids results in lack of exercise. That, in turn, has health risks. Less known is the effect of excessive screen time on their eyes—specifically myopia or nearsightedness leading to future vision problems. A survey by the University of Michigan suggests only one-half of parents recognize the impact screen time has on their children’s eyes. The report says parents should encourage at least one to two hours of outdoor time each day for exposure to natural light. A recommendation related to bright sunlight is, of course, to make sure young eyes are protected with sunglasses. The report says research has also indicated an association between myopia and working up close with the small screen of a tablet or smart phone.