Impact of Screen time on your childs eyesight
Received a forward on how we can take care of our kids eyes while schooling virtually. Just a few pointers which we all are aware of but we need to remind our kids and make sure they follow and in build inside them. I would never express positivity for online schooling but i guess this is the path ahead for our kids. Just a little efforts to align our kids with screen etiquettes which will take care of their eyes and overall health also.
- Using bigger screens preferably iPads/ Laptops / Tablets as they are better than smartphones in terms of visibility. .
- Place the device at a distance of 1 and half feet to 2 feet & at 10-30 degrees below eye level so there is no neck strain. Back should be straight.
- Parents should supervise the kids often so that they maintain distance from the screens.
- Making conscious effort to blink frequently as it refreshes eyes and makes one more attentive. Normal blink rate being 12 -15 times a minute.
- Each session should be at the most of 30 minutes. Encouraging a 10 min break after each session ( i know practically that's not possible and not even happening in my daughters sessions but I so wish this comes into practise too). Also child should move away from the screen in break time to reduce screen time however small it is.
- I loved this point the most. ' 5 times the poem.
"Stretch yourself (5 times).
Roll your head (5 times).
Roll your wrists (5 times) .
Look outside the window , and count 5 objects you see.
Drink sips of water (5 times).
5 times you jump like little Jack.
And teacher is here, we gotta run back."
- Adjust the brightness of the screen before the session starts. Not too bright , not too dim.
- Healthy diet containing essential vitamins , antioxidants, carotenoids .
- Cutting down screen time for entertainment purposes.
- Encouraging physical exercise like yoga and aerobics.
- Adequate sleep of 8-10 hours
If we train our kids in the ways mentioned above , online schooling will be a better experience and kids will learn screen time etiquettes that will stay with them forever.