Why Children Should Limit Phone and Screen Time :
In today’s digital world, screens are everywhere. While technology offers numerous benefits, it’s important to balance its use, especially for children. Let’s explore why it’s crucial for kids to limit their phone and screen time, backed by research and evidence, and how parents can help make this happen.
Impact on Physical Health
Children spending too much time on screens tend to lead a more sedentary lifestyle. This lack of physical activity is linked to obesity and other health issues. For instance, kids might choose to play video games instead of engaging in outdoor sports, which can lead to weight gain and poor physical fitness.
Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to digital eye strain, characterized by symptoms like dry eyes, headaches, and blurred vision. Imagine a child spending hours on a tablet without taking breaks – over time, this can impact their vision and overall eye health.
Screens, especially before bedtime, can interfere with sleep. The blue light emitted by devices suppresses melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep. Poor sleep can lead to problems with attention, learning, and overall health.
Impact on Mental Health
Excessive screen time, particularly on social media, has been linked to poor mental health outcomes. For example, children constantly exposed to social media may experience increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of loneliness due to the pressure to fit in and the tendency to compare themselves with others.
High screen time can negatively affect children’s ability to focus and manage their behavior. For instance, kids who spend hours watching fast-paced videos may struggle to concentrate on less stimulating activities, like reading or doing homework.
Some studies suggest that excessive screen time might be associated with autism-like symptoms. While causation isn’t confirmed, it raises concerns about the potential developmental impact of prolonged screen use.
Cognitive Development
For young children, excessive screen time can hinder language development. Instead of interacting with caregivers, which is essential for learning to speak and understand language, they might be passively consuming content on screens.
Screen time can affect executive functions like inhibitory control, which helps children manage impulses. Kids who spend a lot of time on screens may find it harder to resist immediate gratification and control their behavior. Excessive screen use can interfere with academic performance. Children might prioritize screen time over studying, leading to poorer grades and reduced academic success.
The AAP suggests that children aged 2 to 5 years should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, and older children should have consistent limits on the amount of time spent on phones.
American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP)
Social Development
Spending too much time on screens can reduce face-to-face interactions, crucial for developing social skills. For instance, children who are glued to their phones might miss out on playing with friends or family, which is important for learning how to communicate and empathize with others. Excessive screen use can detract from quality family time. Engaging in shared activities, like playing board games or going for walks, strengthens family bonds and provides emotional support.
Who to Contact for More Information in New Zealand
Children and Families Research Fund: This fund supports research using data from the Growing Up in New Zealand study, providing insights into the effects of screen time on children’s health and development.
Growing Up in New Zealand: This longitudinal study offers valuable information on how screen time affects cognitive development and social functioning in children.
Outward Bound Trust of New Zealand: Their research highlights the benefits of reducing screen time and promoting outdoor activities for better health and productivity.
A Better Start National Science Challenge: They focus on improving child health and development through balanced screen use and other interventions.