Is any screen time ok for little ones?

These days, there are screens in almost every environment – from phones and tablets to TVs and computers – and it can be very difficult to limit a child’s access. Unfortunately, research suggests that excessive screen time can contribute to a range of health issues, including obesity, and problems related to attention, behaviour and social skills. The reality is that unstructured play time is highly beneficial to children, and problems can occur when screen time begins to replace this. 

What are the issues associated with screen time?


Rene van den Heever, a behavioural optometrist based in Salt Rock, KZN, says that she encounters a number of problems related to screen time in her line of work, the most common of which is digital eye strain. “This includes tired, dry and uncomfortable eyes, and blurry vision,” she explains. 

"Exposure to blue light might result in sleeping problems, squinting of lids, occasional inward squinting of eyes, focus problems and also short sightedness.” 

Some studies suggest that too much screen time (along with poor quality programming) is linked to language delays and inappropriate behaviour.  

How much is too much? 


When it comes to setting limits on screen time, Rene suggests capping it at two hours per day for school-going children over the age of five years old. Her recommendation is that children under the age of two have no screen time at all, while little ones between the ages of two and five have a maximum of one hour per day. 

If you do allow your child to enjoy some screen time, there are a few things you can do to minimise its negative effects. “Less is more with screen time, and I would definitely recommend good posture and lighting,” says Rene. 

“Don’t let your child go to bed with any digital device, make sure they don’t hold the phone too close to their eyes, and let them take breaks often.” Rene also suggests trying blue block glasses – these are designed to filter blue spectrum rays and keep the eyes focused and relaxed. 

Is there any benefit to screen time?  


From around the age of two, it’s possible that your child could benefit from some screen time, especially if you choose media that includes story-telling, music or even movement. Watch with your child, and make sure that you don’t replace activities like reading, exercise and playing with excessive amounts of passive screen time. 

“Screens are not all bad,” says Rene. “Screen time definitely opens the world for us in terms of information and education, but we need to limit our children not only to prevent addiction to devices, but also to prevent visual-related issues that might be induced by too much screen time. Children need to play outside. I always say kids need to earn screen time with outdoor play or book reading.” 

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