Parents worried kids' eyesight is being harmed by 45 hours a week indoors

A nationwide survey of 2,000 parents with children aged between 6 and 14 has revealed that kids are spending nearly two-and-a-half hours a day glued to screens, whether it's on , tablets or watching TV. The report indicates that over two thirds of parents wish their children would spend more time outdoors, but 43% confessed that their kids simply prefer screen time.

A quarter of reported that their children show no interest in outdoor activities, while indoor pastimes such as watching TV, , and scrolling on phones dominate. In contrast, only 34% play with physical toys and a mere 31% read regularly.

Four in ten parents express concern over their children's ability to maintain a healthy balance with devices, with a similar proportion worried that their kids may actually be addicted to them. Additionally, 29% fear that excessive is hindering their children's creativity.

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While one-third of parents have already discussed the risks of too much screen time with their children, two-thirds remain concerned that prolonged device use could harm their kids' eyesight.

The research, commissioned by Specsavers, coincides with the to highlight the growing issue of childhood myopia, also known as short‑sightedness or near‑sightedness.

As part of the initiative, a giant outdoor snakes and ladders installation has been set up on London's South Bank, encouraging families to learn more about children's myopia myths and facts.

Optometrist Dr Nigel Best has warned that children's eyes, which are still developing, are particularly susceptible to the effects of prolonged screen use. “We’re encouraging parents to look out for early signs of myopia and to prioritise time outdoors, which has been shown to help protect children’s vision," he said.

He also advised parents to remember the 20-20-20 rule: "every 20 minutes, encourage your child to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds.”

Alarmingly, a quarter of parents reported their child experiencing after using their devices, while 20% noticed their kids rubbing their eyes once they finally detach themselves from the screen.

Other complaints included eye strain, sore eyes, and difficulty seeing the board at school. Nearly a third of parents have caught their children sitting too close to the TV, while 23% have noticed them holding books or tablets right up to their face.

In an effort to break this cycle, families have started planning more outdoor activities, and setting tech time limits.

Dr Best reassured parents, saying: “The good news is that early action really can make a difference. Regular eye tests are vital in spotting the signs of myopia early and can help slow its progression.

“We want to empower families with knowledge and encourage them to first step by booking a free eye test. With myopia cases rising, early diagnosis has never been more important.”