Reversing the Harmful Effects of Screens on Children’s Eyes

BY RENATA NANNETTI Renata Nannetti is the owner of Sterling Optical located at 2626 Hylan Boulevard, Staten Island, NY 10306

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It is no secret that technology is the new norm. People rely on their smartphones, tablets and computers to get through daily life more than ever before.

With this modern-day way of life comes serious concerns about screen time, especially for children and their still-developing eyes. Now that most schools are remote, kids are staring at computers for hours every day. Here are some ways parents can reduce the strain on their kids’ eyes.

Adjust monitor height and

position. Screens should be at or lower than eye level. Your eyes should look slightly downward when viewing the middle of the screen. In addition, computers or tablets should always be positioned away from direct sunlight or harsh light sources. This prevents glare and reduces bright light.

Maintain distance. Position your child’s monitor at least 20 inches from the eyes, about an arm’s length distance. If the screen is larger, add more viewing distance. If possible, increase the text size so that your child can read easily while maintaining this distance. Keeping this distance prevents the need to squint and strain.

Use the 20/20/20 rule. 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off, and focus on something at least 20 feet away once during the break. Breaks in between usage give your child’s eyes a necessary breather.

Consider blue light glasses. If your child wears glasses, professional quality blue filtering lenses for glare reduction allow the eyes to feel comfort in front of a screen. These are usually available either with or without a prescription.

Adjust screen brightness.

Like blue light lenses, adjusting the brightness and color on your screen makes a noticeable difference. Most tablets, computers, and smart phones come with a brightness setting called “Night Shift.” This setting adjusts the colors of your display, making the screen much easier on the eyes. When this setting is enabled you can feel the strain subside, making long hours in front of a screen tolerable.

If your device does not offer brightness options, a blue light screen protector keeps children protected just as well.

Moderation is key. Limiting screen time is extremely important. Children are already in front of the screen for hours as it is for schoolwork, so any additional screen time beyond that should be strictly limited. Setting a schedule for screen time gives the eyes -- and the mind – a break.

Schedule regular checkups.

Routine eye exams with an optometrist are vital to ensuring your child’s eyes are healthy and developing properly.

In 2020, technology is something we cannot avoid. Although our devices make life a little easier, they cause concerns that require precautions. And although excessive screen time may have negative effects on young ones’ eyes, there are many things parents can do to prevent harmful strain on the eyes.

Dr. Salvatore Indelicato DMD, PC A long time resident of Staten Island, Dr. Salvatore Indelicato has been providing personal, gentle, quality orthodontic care to the Staten Island community for over 25 years. He received his dental degree, with highest honors, from the University of Florida and completed his orthodontic specialty training at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. Our state-of-the-art practice provides digital scanning and orthodontic treatments for children as well as adults. Recognized as a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, Dr. Indelicato is Board Certified and is a member of the American Association of Orthodontics. 444 Huguenot Avenue Staten Island, NY 10312 718-967-5213 Instagram @bracesbydrsal

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Sterling Optical Hylan Boulevard For the past century Sterling Optical has built a solid reputation for providing professional and accurate eye exams, quality eyewear services and impeccable customer service. Today, we are proud to offer our community advanced technology and the latest in vision testing, fashion-forward designer frames and cutting-edge products for our community. At the Staten Island location on Hylan Boulevard, Renata and her team provides full service eye care for the entire family at reasonable prices. You’ll find the best value and fashion for everyone, right here at your local Sterling Optical! Mention this ad for an additional 15% off any complete pair of glasses. We accept most insurance. STERLING OPTICAL 2626 Hylan Boulevard • 10306 718-987-7200 facebook.com/SterlingOpticalHylanPlaza

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Michael P. Santoro, MD

Dr. Michael Santoro is a pediatrician in Staten Island, New York and is affiliated with Staten Island University Hospital. He has been in practice for more than 20 years. Dr. Santoro accepts most health insurances. He and his office staff speak English and Spanish. Rated 4 out 4 stars on vitals.com. Dr. Santoro has won several honors including Compassionate Doctor Recognition in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015, Top Doctor - State in 2014, Patients’ Choice Award in 2012, 2013, 2014 and 2015. Physicals, immunizations, vaccinations, check up and pediatric diabetes. Dr. Santoro sees patients from birth to early adulthood.

520 Bloomingdale Road Staten Island, NY 10309 718-370-9100