Fall means back-to-school in Clarksville, MD — and for many kids, that also means hours of homework and classwork on laptops, tablets, or smartboards. While technology is an incredible learning tool, too much screen time can take a toll on young eyes.
At River Hill Optical, our team, including Dr. Stephen Flemke, Dr. Nancy Cooper-Gregory, and Dr. Daryl Smith, often see children with symptoms of digital eye strain. The good news: with the right habits and regular pediatric eye exams, parents can protect their child’s vision and keep school screen time safe.
What is Digital Eye Strain — and Why Kids Are Vulnerable
Digital eye strain, sometimes called computer vision syndrome, occurs when the eyes get tired from focusing on screens for long periods.
Children may experience blurred or fluctuating vision, headaches after schoolwork, frequent eye rubbing, or a loss of focus. Neck and shoulder discomfort from poor posture is also common. Kids are especially vulnerable because their visual systems are still developing, and they may not recognize that their discomfort is related to their eyes.
How School Screen Time Increases Risk
From Chromebooks in the classroom to after-school homework apps, students today spend more time than ever on screens. Hybrid schedules, online testing, and e-learning platforms only add to the load.
According to the American Optometric Association, children can spend up to seven hours per day on digital devices during the school year (source). That constant near focus strains the eyes, raising the risk of fatigue, headaches, and even long-term nearsightedness (myopia).
Practical Tips Parents Can Use Right Away
Fortunately, small changes can make a big difference. Encourage your child to follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This simple break allows the eye muscles to relax and reduces strain.
Make sure their study space has good lighting and minimal glare on screens. Proper ergonomics matter as well — keep the monitor slightly below eye level and about two feet away. Adjust text size and brightness on devices to make reading comfortable, and use built-in blue light filters when possible.
Don’t forget about breaks. Encourage your child to step away from the screen for five minutes each hour. Balance school technology with offline activities like reading a book or spending time outdoors. Studies show that outdoor light plays an important role in reducing the risk of myopia in children.
Finally, remind your child to blink often and stay hydrated. Staring at a screen reduces blinking, which can lead to dryness and discomfort.
A Clarksville parent recently shared with us, “Once we started using the 20-20-20 rule during homework time, my daughter’s headaches went away, and she enjoys reading again.” Simple strategies like these can ease strain and prevent long-term issues.
When to Schedule an Eye Exam
Sometimes discomfort signals that an eye exam is needed. If your child squints at the board or screen, tilts their head, covers one eye, or complains of frequent headaches, it’s best to schedule a pediatric eye exam. Struggles with reading, short attention span, or constant eye rubbing are also red flags.
How River Hill Optical Helps Clarksville Families
At River Hill Optical, serving Clarksville and Howard County, our doctors provide complete pediatric care designed for today’s screen-heavy world. We offer comprehensive eye exams for children and teens, contact lens fittings for older kids who prefer alternatives to glasses, and dry eye management for children with burning or watery eyes. We also provide emergency eye care for accidents or sports injuries, and a wide selection of designer eyeglasses for kids that combine style and durability.
Our eye doctors — Dr. Flemke, Dr. Cooper-Gregory, and Dr. Smith — take the time to explain results, recommend the best solutions, and help children feel comfortable during exams.
Quick Checklist for Clarksville Parents
- Schedule a pediatric eye exam before or during the school year
- Encourage the 20-20-20 rule at home
- Balance homework with outdoor time
- Watch for signs of eye strain or vision problems
Visit Our Eye Doctors in Clarksville today
Digital eye strain is a growing concern for kids in Clarksville and across Howard County. The right habits at home combined with regular exams at River Hill Optical can make all the difference.
Schedule your child’s eye exam and protect their vision for years to come.