How Much Screen Time Is Okay for Kids?

Urband Creative
Jan 9
2 min read

If your child spends more time looking at screens than looking at you, don’t worry. Every parent today is fighting the same battle. Phone, iPads, TVs, laptops, even schoolwork… screens are everywhere.

So instead of stressing over every minute they’re playing Roblox or watching Mr Beast videos, let’s try to understand screen time in a simple, practical way.

So… how much screen time is actually okay?

The truth is, there isn’t one magical number. But most specialists do give a general guide:

Kids aged 2–5: around 1 hour a day
Kids aged 6–12: about 2 hours of recreational screen time

(schoolwork doesn’t count — sadly)

These aren’t strict rules. Families do what they can. The main idea is simply: screens are fine when balanced with breaks and other activities.

Why does too much screen time affect their eyes?

Screens make kids focus up close for long periods. When they do that:

They blink less
Eyes dry out faster
They get tired easier
Blue light + overstimulation can affect sleep
Prolonged close-up work can speed up myopia

Screens aren’t “bad.” It’s the nonstop usage that tires out their little eyes.

Fun Fact!

Kids blink up to 66% less during screen time. Their usual 20–40 blinks a minute can drop to around 8, which quickly leads to dryness and tired eyes.

What can parents do to make screen time healthier?

Take short breaks between videos
Keep screens at least an arm’s length away
Avoid using screens in very dark rooms
Encourage blinking
Well-fitting, comfortable eyewear can reduce strain during long periods of near work.
Try to get 1–2 hours of outdoor play daily

Outdoors especially! It’s genuinely one of the best ways to support healthy vision.

What’s the easiest rule to remember?

The 20–20–20 rule. One of the most parent-friendly tips ever.

Every 20 minutes:

Look 20 feet away
For 20 seconds

It’s simple enough that kids remember it too.

A quick note from Eyelet

Screen time is simply part of growing up today — from homework to hobbies. That’s why Eyelet focuses on creating eyewear that stays comfortable, flexible and durable for everyday use. A proper, well-fitted pair of glasses can also help reduce unnecessary strain during long periods of near work or reading.