Why VR/AR Can Strain Young Eyes
Children’s visual systems are still maturing, and VR/AR devices require the eyes to work in ways they don’t naturally do in real life. Some of the most common concerns include:
1. VR-Induced Eye Strain
Extended use can cause:
Eye fatigue
Blurry vision
Dry or irritated eyes
Headaches
2. Cybersickness
This is similar to motion sickness and can include:
Nausea
Dizziness
Sweating
Disorientation
3. Myopia Progression
There is growing concern that prolonged screen use, especially close-up viewing, may contribute to nearsightedness (myopia) progression in children and adolescents.
The Big Issue: Vergence-Accommodation Conflict
One unique challenge with VR is the vergence-accommodation conflict. In simple terms:
Vergence is the eyes turning inward to focus on a close object.
Accommodation is the eyes adjusting focus to see clearly.
In VR, the eyes may converge as if looking at a nearby object, but the screen is actually at a fixed distance. This mismatch can lead to discomfort, eye strain, and temporary vision changes.
Tips for Safer VR/AR Use
To protect developing eyes, consider these guidelines:
Limit VR sessions to short periods
Encourage breaks every 10–15 minutes
Ensure proper device fit and screen brightness
Avoid VR for very young children
Monitor for signs of discomfort or nausea
Final Thoughts
VR and AR are exciting technologies, but they should be used responsibly — especially by children and teens. Because their eyes are still developing, it’s important to be mindful of screen time, take frequent breaks, and watch for signs of eye strain or discomfort.
If your child experiences persistent symptoms after VR use, a pediatric eye exam can help ensure their visual system is healthy and developing properly.