Eyes & Education: How to Protect Children’s Vision During the Holiday Screen Surge

Growing Up in the Digital Age

Childhood today looks different from even a decade ago. Tablets have replaced textbooks, and screens are a big part of both learning and leisure. While technology fuels creativity, it also brings a new kind of visual load — one that growing eyes aren’t built to handle for long hours.

Studies show a sharp rise in digital eye strain and early-onset myopia among children aged 5–12. Long stretches of near-focus lead to headaches, fatigue, blurred vision, and slower concentration. More worryingly, excessive blue light exposure in the evenings disrupts sleep patterns, leaving kids restless and less alert the next day.

In India, research suggests that more than 40% of children are at risk of developing myopia by adolescence. The good news? With early care and awareness, much of this can be managed — and even prevented.

Supporting Children's Vision

Early intervention matters most when it comes to children’s vision. If your child often squints, sits too close to screens, complains of headaches, or avoids reading, it might be time for a vision check.

To make it simple, we’ve created tools and guides for parents:

• Take the Myopia Risk Assessment Quiz to understand your child’s individual risk factors.

• Read our guide on recognising signs of myopia in children.

• Try our DIY Vision Screening Kit designed to make preliminary vision screening simple, fun, engaging, and accessible to everyone, especially children. 

• Learn more about our Myopia Management Centre, where our optometrists build customised care plans, from control lenses to lifestyle adjustments.

These small steps can make a lasting difference — protecting your child’s vision today, and setting them up for clearer tomorrows.

Everyday Eyewear That Supports Growing Eyes

Children need frames that can keep up with their lives — durable, flexible, and built for long hours of comfort. At S.R.Gopal Rao, we curate eyewear designed with kids in mind, balancing strength, style, and safety.

Our pick: SeeSaw – eyewear that brings together lightweight materials, bright colours, and impact-resistant construction. Designed to flex and adapt, SeaSaw frames stay comfortable through homework, playground games, and everything in between.

Pair them with blue-control lenses to reduce digital eye fatigue or Trivex lenses for extra durability during play.

Building Healthier Screen Habits at Home

Eye care isn’t just about glasses — it’s about daily habits too. Parents can help protect their child’s vision with small, consistent routines:

• Follow the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen time, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.

• Encourage outdoor play: at least one to two hours a day helps slow myopia progression.

• Limit screens before bed: even 30 minutes less exposure can improve sleep and focus.

Good eyewear helps, but good habits sustain the difference.

A Clearer Tomorrow Starts Early

By 2030, experts estimate that one in three children worldwide could be myopic. Early checks, smart eyewear, and balanced screen time can slow that trend — keeping sight clear, comfortable, and confident.

At S.R.Gopal Rao, we’re here to help parents make eye care part of everyday parenting — practical, protective, and personal. Because clear vision shouldn’t wait until school reopens.

Book your child’s eye exam today and explore our collection of eyewear designed for young, growing eyes. Together, let’s protect their sight for the future.