Screen Time and Kids: How It Affects Their Eyes, Brain, and Growth

In today’s digital age, screens have become an integral part of daily life. Whether it’s for entertainment, education, or communication, children are spending more time than ever in front of screens. While technology offers numerous benefits, there are growing concerns about its impact on children’s health, particularly their eyes, brains, and overall growth. Dr. Shaun Segal, a leading expert in pediatric health, shares insights into how excessive screen time can affect children and provides guidelines on how parents can protect their child’s health in 2025.

The Rise of Screen Time Among Kids

In 2025, children are exposed to various screens from a young age, including smartphones, tablets, computers, and televisions. According to recent studies, children under the age of 12 spend an average of 4-6 hours daily in front of screens. While screens can be used for educational purposes and interactive learning, the amount of time spent on them has raised concerns about the long-term effects on children’s physical and mental well-being.

Dr. Shaun Segal points out that the increasing prevalence of digital devices in households, along with the use of screens in schools and recreational activities, has created an environment where children are more sedentary and screen-dependent than ever before.

How Screen Time Affects Kids’ Eyes

One of the most immediate concerns regarding screen time is its effect on children’s eye health. Prolonged screen exposure can lead to several vision problems, including:

1. Digital Eye Strain: Digital eye strain, also known as computer vision syndrome, is a common issue among children who spend long hours on screens. Symptoms can include dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and neck or shoulder pain. Dr. Shaun Segal explains that the close-up nature of screens, along with the constant focusing and refocusing required while using digital devices, puts a strain on the eyes. Children are particularly susceptible because their eyes are still developing.
   
2. Increased Risk of Myopia (Nearsightedness): There is a growing body of research suggesting that excessive screen time can contribute to the development of myopia in children. Myopia is a condition where distant objects appear blurry, and it has become increasingly common among children worldwide. Dr. Shaun Segal highlights that the constant close-up use of screens may cause the eyes to elongate, leading to nearsightedness.
   
3. Sleep Disruption: Exposure to blue light emitted by screens before bedtime can interfere with sleep patterns by disrupting the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Children who use screens late at night may experience difficulty falling asleep, which can lead to fatigue and diminished eye health. Dr. Segal suggests limiting screen exposure to at least an hour before bedtime to help children get restful sleep and reduce eye strain.

Also Read: 2025 Trends in Pediatric Nutrition: What Every Parent Should Know

The Impact of Screen Time on Kids’ Brain Development

While screens are used for educational content, they also pose risks to brain development, particularly in younger children. According to Dr. Shaun Segal, the brain undergoes rapid development during childhood, and excessive screen time can interfere with this process in several ways:

1. Reduced Cognitive Development: Studies have shown that children who spend more time on screens tend to have lower levels of cognitive development. This includes issues with attention span, memory, and problem-solving skills. Dr. Segal emphasizes that passive screen activities, such as watching television or scrolling through social media, do not stimulate the brain in the same way interactive activities (like reading or playing outside) do. Over time, this can affect a child’s ability to concentrate and process information effectively.
   
2. Delayed Language Skills: For younger children, excessive screen time may hinder the development of language skills. Face-to-face interaction is vital for children to learn communication skills, such as vocabulary acquisition and the understanding of non-verbal cues. When children are overly engaged with screens, they miss out on these critical learning experiences. Dr. Segal advises parents to encourage verbal interactions with their children and to use screen time as a tool for learning, rather than a replacement for social interaction.
   
3. Impact on Emotional Regulation: Excessive screen time, particularly through social media and gaming, can negatively impact emotional regulation in children. Studies suggest that the instant gratification and constant stimulation provided by screens can lead to difficulties in managing emotions, leading to anxiety, stress, or irritability. Dr. Shaun Segal explains that parents should monitor the content children are exposed to and encourage activities that help them develop emotional intelligence, such as mindfulness or outdoor play.

The Effects of Screen Time on Kids’ Growth and Physical Health

While screen time may seem like a harmless pastime, it can also have an impact on a child’s overall physical health and growth. Dr. Shaun Segal highlights the following areas of concern:

1. Physical Inactivity and Obesity: One of the most significant risks of excessive screen time is physical inactivity. When children spend hours sitting in front of a screen, they miss out on opportunities for physical activity, which is essential for proper growth, development, and overall health. This lack of movement increases the risk of obesity, a growing concern among children in 2025. Dr. Segal recommends that children engage in at least one hour of physical activity each day to help maintain a healthy weight and promote healthy development.
   
2. Posture and Musculoskeletal Problems: Prolonged use of screens can lead to poor posture and musculoskeletal problems. Children who spend long hours hunched over devices are more likely to develop back, neck, and shoulder pain. Over time, this can lead to chronic pain or even long-term musculoskeletal issues. Dr. Shaun Segal suggests that parents encourage regular breaks and physical activities, such as stretching, to promote good posture and prevent strain.
   
3. Reduced Social Development: Children who spend excessive time on screens may miss out on vital social experiences. Face-to-face interactions are essential for developing social skills and learning how to communicate effectively with others. Dr. Segal emphasizes that children should be encouraged to engage in social activities, play with their peers, and build meaningful relationships outside of the digital world.

Recommended Reading: Understanding Pediatric Mental Health in 2025: How Pediatricians Are Addressing Anxiety and Depression

How to Protect Kids from the Negative Effects of Screen Time

While it’s unlikely that screen time can be entirely eliminated in 2025, parents can take several steps to ensure that it doesn’t negatively impact their children’s health:

1. Set Screen Time Limits: Dr. Shaun Segal recommends establishing clear guidelines for screen use. For children aged 2 to 5, screen time should be limited to no more than one hour per day. For older children, two hours per day is a reasonable limit.
   
2. Encourage Active Screen Time: Choose educational apps and games that encourage learning and physical activity. Dr. Segal also suggests incorporating activities such as family walks or outdoor play after screen time to help children stay active.
   
3. Promote Healthy Sleep Habits: Ensure that children do not use screens at least an hour before bedtime to avoid disrupting their sleep. A consistent bedtime routine can help children develop healthy sleep patterns.
   
4. Model Healthy Screen Habits: Children learn by observing their parents. Dr. Segal encourages parents to model healthy screen time habits, such as using devices in moderation, taking breaks, and prioritizing in-person interactions.

In 2025, the impact of screen time on children’s eyes, brain, and physical growth is a growing concern. While screens can be a valuable tool for learning and entertainment, excessive exposure can lead to a range of health issues, including digital eye strain, cognitive delays, physical inactivity, and emotional difficulties. Dr. Shaun Segal emphasizes that balance is key—by setting limits on screen time, encouraging physical activity, and promoting social and emotional development, parents can help their children grow into healthy, well-rounded individuals. With proper management, screen time can be a positive experience for kids, without compromising their well-being.