ST. LOUIS—Ever wonder how much time kids are spending on digital devices? Apparently, a lot more time than their parents think, according to the American Optometric Association (AOA). A recent survey from the AOA revealed that digital device use is up among school-age children and their parents are drastically underestimating the time they spend on electronics in the classroom and at home.

To remedy the risk of vision issues like computer vision syndrome and digital eye strain that kids are facing this back-to-school season, the AOA has initiated a campaign encouraging optometrists to dispense “back-to-school device advice” and spread the word about the importance of comprehensive eye exams in the detection and prevention of electronics-related eye health problems.

According to the AOA’s annual American Eye-Q survey, 85 percent of parents indicated that their children are on electronic devices for up to four hours a day. Additionally, 41 percent of children have their own smartphone or tablet and 32 percent are using e-books as well as textbooks at school. This increased exposure to screens and blue/violet light can cause vision challenges such as computer vision syndrome and digital eye strain.

As part of the Back-to-School campaign, the AOA has issued “device advice” for children of all ages, and in specific age groups including preschool and kindergarten, elementary school, and middle and high school. One tip that is recommended for all ages is following the 20-20-20-rule; when using technology, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and view something 20 feet away. Some age-specific tips include:

• For preschool and kindergarten aged kids, limiting tech time to two hours or less a day and increasing font size.

• For elementary school children, using cell phones only for quick tasks like texting; holding devices half an arm’s length away and slightly below eye level; and taking frequent breaks/changing positions.

• For middle school and high school students, positioning screens 20 to 28 inches away from the eyes; keeping the top of the screen at eye level; using ergonomic desk areas or gaming chairs; and eliminating glare.

The AOA has summarized some of these statistics and tips in an infographic, “The A B ‘Sees’ of Heading Back to School.” For more information, visit aoa.org.