Now more than ever, children are spending the majority of their day looking at a screen. In fact, 44% are using screens for more than 6 hours a day. As a result, many children are experiencing headaches. To help prevent this, here are a few ways that can help with headaches from online learning.
Stay Hydrated
Dehydration can cause headaches no matter what your child is working on or playing with, so make sure your child has a water bottle nearby when they’re on the computer. Hydration can also help with energy and focus, so it is extra important for online learning!
Take Breaks
It is extremely important to take screen breaks. A common rule is the 20-20-20 rule: Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes to focus on an object 20 feet away. This helps to prevent focus fatigue (which comes from using your eyes for long periods of time without resting them.)
Print When Possible
Just because your child is learning online doesn’t mean they can’t do their homework by hand. If possible, print out lessons and assignments to allow your child to focus on a tangible sheet of paper rather than the screen. This will relieve eye strain from the blue light of the computer or tablet.
Keep a Schedule
A lack of structure can lead to headaches and pain. To keep screen-time consistent, make sure they start and end their day at the same time each day if possible. Try scheduling a true lunch break daily as well to prevent eating and learning at the computer at the same time.
Adjust Display Settings
Adjusting the brightness, text size, contrast and color temperature can help to significantly reduce eye-strain and headaches your child might be experiencing. These can easily be found in your display settings.
If your child is still getting frequent headaches, see a doctor to get help relieving screen headaches. Remember, Pediatric Urgent Care of Northern Colorado is ready to help and treat your child 365 days a year! If you have any questions, please contact us!