Myth: Sitting Too Close to the TV Damages Your Eyes

It’s a common belief that sitting close to the television harms eyesight, often prompting parents to advise children to sit farther away. This myth has persisted for generations, causing unnecessary worry about children’s vision.

Contrary to this belief, sitting close to a TV screen does not cause permanent eye damage. The American Academy of Ophthalmology explains that while it may lead to temporary eye strain, it does not affect long-term eye health. Eye strain can result in discomfort, such as headaches or blurred vision, but these symptoms are temporary and resolve with rest. Children often sit closer to screens because they are more visually curious and can focus on objects at close distances with ease. Understanding that sitting close to the TV doesn’t harm eyesight can help parents avoid undue stress and encourage other, more effective habits for eye health, like taking breaks during screen time and ensuring adequate lighting.