Smart devices overuse does increase the risk of myopia. Too much screentime could cause retinal eye damage over time. This also stops the eyes from focusing when they're away from the screen. A study shows that when a child spends too much time on a smart device, they will be more prone to dry-eye diseases [1].
There is a higher chance of developing severe myopia in the future if a child develops myopia in their youth. This will add on to digital eye strain (also known as computer vision syndrome).
Hence, I generally feel smartphones are not meant for children’s eyes. The amount of near work and the exposure to blue-light radiation can cause:
- myopia,
- excessive dry eyes and
- behavioural issues for children.
References:
1. Moon JH, Kim KW, Moon NJ. Smartphone use is a risk factor for pediatric dry eye disease according to region and age: a case control study. BMC Ophthalmology. 2016;16(1). doi:10.1186/s12886-016-0364-4
