Effectiveness of the Eye Care Kit Promotion Program on Screen Time, Digital Eye Strain and Physical Activity in Preschool Children: A Quasi-Experimental Study

Information from the abstract

Eye strain, medically known as asthenopia, and excessive screen time in young children are associated with digital eye strain and insufficient physical activity. However, evidence on family-based, technology-assisted interventions for preschool children in Thailand remains limited. This study investigated the effectiveness of the Eye Care Kit Promotion Program on screen time, digital eye strain, and physical activity among preschool children. Using a quasi-experimental design, 64 parent-child dyads of children aged 4-5 years with excessive screen time were recruited from two kindergartens in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The experimental group (n = 32) participated in the eight-week Eye Care Kit Promotion Program, whereas the control group (n = 32) received usual care. Outcome assessments were conducted at baseline and at Weeks 4 and 8 using the Parent-Reported Screen Time and Physical Activity Questionnaire and the Digital Eye Strain Syndrome Assessment Form for Children. Intervention effects over time between groups were analyzed using generalized estimating equations. The findings showed that the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater reductions in total and smartphone screen time at both post-intervention (Week 4) and follow-up (Week 8), with consistent reductions in weekend screen time compared with the control group. Digital eye strain decreased at follow-up (Week 8), and total physical activity increased at post-intervention (Week 4), particularly light-intensity activity. However, no significant changes in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity were observed. These findings suggest that a family-based, technology-assisted program can help families manage preschoolers’ screen time, prevent visual risks, and encourage age-appropriate physical activity. Family and school nurses are essential in implementing the program to support healthy behaviors and reduce long-term screen-related health risks. However, a multisite study with long-term follow-up is needed.

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Related topics: Child Development and Digital Technology · Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Disorders · Ophthalmology and Visual Impairment Studies