Computers in the classroom are not only an excellent learning tool but have become a necessity.  However, classroom computer use coupled with several hours each day sending emails, surfing the Web and playing video games is resulting in frequent cases of blurred vision, sore and dry eyes, fatigue, shoulder pain and headaches - all symptoms of computer vision syndrome (CVS).  Recent studies have also strongly correlated the increased use of computers by children to the early onset of myopia, or nearsightedness (difficulty focusing on distant objects).

According to a University of California Berkeley School of Optometry study, it is estimated that as many as 30% of the 37 million children in the U.S. who use computers at home or in school are causing undue stress on their visual system.  The symptoms, as described above, often result from performing a highly visual task beyond the point of visual exhaustion, improper workstation arrangement or the presence of other visual problems.  The good news is that there are several steps that can be taken to minimize eyestrain.

Children and Computer Eyestrain Facts

• Children are more susceptible to computer vision problems than adults due to their immature visual systems
• 30% of children may be in need of specific eyewear when sitting in front of a computer screen
• Excessive, uncontrolled computer use by children likely increases the risk of early myopia (nearsightedness)

Tips for alleviating Computer Vision Syndrome:

• Child-size the workstation – place the computer at an angle of approximately 15 degrees below a child’s line of vision, 20 – 26” from his/her face and making sure the child’s feet touch the floor
• Minimize glare on the computer screen – keep it clean
• Use proper lighting – eliminate exterior light and reflections by closing blinds
• Take frequent breaks – at least one 10 minute break per hour
• Refocus eyes - look away from the computer every 10-15 minutes
• Blink often – people blink 5 times less frequently when using a computer