Digital Smarts - Tips for Preventing Computer Vision Syndrome in Children

With the amount of time our kids spend in front of digital devices these days, it is important to be aware of Computer Vision Syndrome, or CVS—a serious condition that can cause back and neck pain, dry eyes, and even headaches. What can you do to prevent your children from developing these problems?

• Watch how much time your kids spend in front a screen – television and otherwise – remembering all things in moderation as a rule of thumb.
• Keep the monitor clean and, if necessary, use a glare-reducing monitor filter.
• Take a break - every hour, have your child take a 10-minute break from the computer (the same goes for you).
• Watch the position - the computer screen should be 20-24 inches from your child’s face (ditto for mom and dad). And, his or her feet need to touch the floor. There should be a slight downward angle (around 15 degrees) from face to screen.