TV and video games can harm children's vision

Children's reading and writing abilities may be harmed by too much television and computer games, according to new research from the American Optometric Association.

Reported in the Daily Express, the findings suggest that watching images on a flat screen for long periods can impede the development of a child's vision, leading to problems with myopia and shifting focus. Poor vision can in turn affect reading and writing capabilities. Report authors also suggest that uncorrected vision can lead to behavioural problems.

AOA spokesperson Professor Andrea Thau said children needed appropriate visual stimulation for their vision to develop normally. 'Parents should limit television and computer games, especially in children under six whose sight is still developing,' she said.