In today’s modern world, screens have become an integral part of our daily life. Be it a computer, TV, tablet, or smartphone; screens have revolutionized the way we interact with the world. As screens have become increasingly common, it has become easier for children to spend countless hours in front of them, leading to concerns about the impact of screen time on children’s health.
Multiple studies have shown that excessive screen time can negatively affect children’s physical and mental health. Many children are now experiencing vision problems, neck and back pain, obesity, sleep disturbances, and delayed cognitive development due to excessive screen time. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children younger than 18 months should not have any screen time other than video-chatting with family. Children between 18-24 months can have limited screen time with high-quality programs under the guidance of guardians. Children between 2-5 years should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, while children aged 6 and older should have consistent limits on the amount of screen time they have based on factors like age, behavior and preferences.
Although screen time has been demonized as something negative, it is essential to note that it is not all bad. Screen time can provide a wide range of benefits, including access to educational programs, new skill acquisition, socialization, and entertainment. The key is to identify high-quality, age-appropriate screen time, and limit exposure to low-quality and harmful media, such as violent or overly stimulating content.
Parents and caregivers must create a healthy balance between screen time and other activities in children’s lives. They should set limits and guidelines for screen time, such as allocating specific times for screen use, prohibiting screens during family meals, outside playtimes and before bed, and actively monitoring and supervising children’s media use. Encouraging children to engage in other activities such as sports, creative play, reading, and outdoor activities can help children develop a healthy relationship with screen time.
In conclusion, screens are prevalent and can have both negative and positive impacts on children’s health. Parents should ensure that children have access to high-quality, age-appropriate media, while regulating and monitoring their screen time to promote a healthy lifestyle that includes other activities. It’s important to note that the quality of the content and the impact of screen time also depend on how parents handle it. So, parents and guardians must prioritize their child’s health and avoid excessive screen time. With proper guidance, children can have the best of both worlds and develop a healthy relationship with screens.
