Some child health specialists and eye care experts have raised concerns over the rising amount of time children spend on digital screens, warning that prolonged exposure is increasingly linked to poor vision, delayed development, and mental health challenges.
Physicians say the widespread use of smartphones, tablets, televisions, and computers by children is contributing to a surge in eye problems such as blurred vision, eye strain, and myopia (nearsightedness), while also affecting cognitive and emotional development.
The paediatricians and ophthalmologists emphasized that children’s eyes, still in the developmental stage, are particularly vulnerable to excessive screen use, a problem that has worsened as digital devices become central to learning and recreation.
They also noted the growing prevalence of myopia among children, particularly in regions where screen time is high and outdoor activity is limited.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, myopia causes distant objects to appear blurry while nearby objects remain clear. Symptoms include headaches, eye strain, squinting, and difficulty seeing faraway objects.
The experts warned that untreated myopia can progress rapidly, increasing the risk of severe complications later in life, including glaucoma, retinal detachment, and other sight-threatening conditions.
Studies have linked it to rising levels of anxiety, depression, social withdrawal, and behavioral problems.
According to Prof. John Okeniyi, Consultant Paediatrician and Chief Medical Director of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile-Ife, described excessive screen use as a growing public health concern.
He noted that long hours on screens contribute to delays in cognitive and motor development, vision problems, obesity, and mental health disorders.
Citing findings from JAMA Pediatrics, Okeniyi stated, “The more time children spend in front of screens, the worse they tend to perform in critical developmental domains such as communication, problem-solving, and motor skills.”
He also highlighted links to attention deficits and hyperactivity, which can affect learning and academic performance.
Okeniyi further warned that screen exposure, especially before bedtime, disrupts sleep by suppressing melatonin production.
He added that sedentary behavior linked to screen use often leads to weight gain, obesity, and unhealthy snacking habits.
On the mental health front, he stressed that social media and prolonged screen use could foster feelings of inadequacy, loneliness, and in extreme cases, exposure to bullying or suicidal ideation. He also cautioned that children with limited face-to-face interaction may experience aggression, irritability, and reduced impulse control.
To mitigate these risks, Okeniyi advised parents to set clear limits on screen time, avoid screens during meals and at least one hour before bedtime, and encourage outdoor play and physical activity. Adults are also urged to model healthy screen habits.
For paediatric ophthalmologist, Dr. Sarat Badmus highlighted the importance of early intervention.
“Children’s eyes are still developing, and excessive screen use at close range significantly increases the risk of myopia,” she said.
She recommended the World Health Organization’s guidelines: no screen time for children under one year, and a maximum of one hour daily for those aged two to four.
For older children, Badmus suggested the “20-20-20 rule”: every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds to reduce eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, and dryness.
She also emphasized proper posture, adequate lighting, and regular eye exams to detect early vision problems.
“While complete avoidance of screens is unrealistic, it is crucial to strike a balance with outdoor play, physical activity, and real-world interactions.
“Early detection through regular eye checks can make a significant difference and prevent long-term complications”, she stated.
