Managing Screen Time in Bakersfield Students: Tips for Eye Strain in Distance & Hybrid Learning

Screens are an essential part of modern education, especially for Bakersfield students navigating distance and hybrid learning. From virtual classrooms to online homework and study sessions, many children spend several hours a day staring at digital devices. While technology makes learning more accessible, it also presents new challenges for young eyes.

Digital eye strain—also known as computer vision syndrome—is a growing concern among children. If your student has been spending more time online, you may have noticed complaints of tired eyes, headaches, or difficulty focusing. The good news is that with the proper habits and regular eye care, you can help protect your child’s vision while supporting their education.

How Too Much Screen Time Affects Students

Children’s eyes are still developing, which makes them more sensitive to the demands of digital devices. Prolonged screen use can lead to:

• Eye fatigue and headaches from focusing on near objects for extended periods
• Dry eyes due to reduced blinking while staring at a screen
• Blurred or fluctuating vision when shifting focus from close to far distances
• Posture-related discomfort, such as neck, shoulder, or back pain

Practical Tips for Reducing Eye Strain

The best way to manage screen-related vision problems is to build healthy habits into your child’s daily routine. Here are some practical steps parents can take:

1. Practice the 20-20-20 Rule

Teach your child to look away from the screen every 20 minutes, focusing on something at least 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This helps relax the eye muscles and prevent fatigue.

2. Create a Vision-Friendly Study Space

Set up a workspace with good lighting to avoid glare and reflections on the screen. Position the monitor slightly below eye level and about an arm’s length away for comfortable viewing.

3. Encourage Regular Blinking

When concentrating on digital tasks, kids naturally blink less often, which can dry out the eyes. Remind them to blink, or consider using lubricating eye drops if recommended by an optometrist.

4. Take Scheduled Breaks

In addition to the 20-20-20 rule, encourage breaks from screens altogether. A 10–15 minute break every hour gives the eyes and body time to reset. Encourage stretching, walking, or playing outside during these breaks.

5. Limit Recreational Screen Time

After school hours, balance is key. Try to reduce recreational screen time by encouraging outdoor activities, sports, reading, or creative hobbies. Fresh air and natural light are especially beneficial for healthy eye development.

6. Adjust Device Settings

Simple changes can make a big difference. Increase text size for easier reading, reduce screen brightness to match the room lighting, and consider using blue light filters in the evening to support better sleep.

7. Prioritize Regular Eye Exams

Even with good habits, some vision problems may not be obvious. Comprehensive eye exams ensure that your child’s eyes are healthy, and they allow our doctors to recommend personalized solutions, such as prescription lenses or blue light–filtering glasses, if needed.

Why Early Action Matters

Children often adapt quickly and may not realize they are experiencing vision problems. They may rub their eyes, lose focus during reading, or struggle with schoolwork without connecting these issues to their eyesight. Catching and addressing these problems early prevents unnecessary strain and supports long-term vision health.

At Li & Liao Optometry, we understand the challenges Bakersfield families face in today’s digital world. Our team is here to help your child succeed in school without sacrificing their eye comfort or health. Whether it’s managing screen time, treating digital eye strain, or providing comprehensive exams, we’re committed to supporting your child’s vision every step of the way.

Support Your Student’s Eye Health Today

Distance and hybrid learning may be here to stay in some form, but that doesn’t mean your child has to struggle with eye strain. With proactive habits and regular care, their eyes can stay healthy and comfortable through every stage of their education.

Schedule a pediatric eye exam with Li & Liao Optometry today and give your child the tools they need for clear, comfortable learning.