Screen addiction is a threat looming over children today. Screens are ubiquitous in our daily lives, as they are in those of our little ones. However, excessive use can lead to serious problems for them. This article aims to warn about the dangers of screen addiction in children, based on recent scientific studies.
Screen addiction in children
What is screen addiction?
Screen addiction is characterized by excessive and compulsive use of digital devices to the point where it interferes with the individual's daily life REF [^1^].
Risks and consequences of screen addiction
Children overexposed to screens can develop various problems, such as attention disorders, sleep problems, and behavioral disorders REF [^2^]. Moreover, it can affect their neurological and cognitive development REF [^1^].
Prevention and tips to avoid screen addiction
It is essential to establish clear limits regarding screen time and to encourage children to engage in other activities. Parents play a crucial role in setting these limits and promoting balanced screen use REF [^3^]. Spending time together as a family without screens strengthens family bonds and creates precious memories.
The dangers of overexposure to screens for children and teens
Effects on development in children and adolescents
Overexposure to screens can also have harmful effects on the social and emotional development of children and adolescents REF [^1^].
Too much screen time and risk of obesity
Children who spend too much time in front of screens also face a risk of developing obesity, due to a lack of physical activity and eating habits that can accompany excessive screen use REF [^4^].
Attention disorders in children overexposed to screens
Children overexposed to screens are likely to develop attention disorders and have difficulty concentrating on tasks that are not screen-related REF [^2^]. This can also affect their school performance.
Principles to limit children's screen use
It is important to implement clear and consistent rules regarding screen use. At the same time, adults should encourage younger ones to take part in activities that are not screen-related. These activities, such as outdoor play, reading, or artistic activities, contribute to the physical, cognitive, and social development of children.
Video games and their impact on children's health
Video games and children's health
Although video games offer certain benefits, such as the development of cognitive skills, they can also have harmful effects if used excessively REF [^4^].
Benefits and risks of video games
It is important to find a balance between the benefits and risks of video games, and to ensure that children do not spend too much time playing. Finding the right balance will promote their overall well-being.
Tips for responsible video game use
Parents should monitor their children's video game use by checking the content. They should also ensure that the titles are age-appropriate. Group or family play sessions should be favored. They promote social interaction and help develop communication skills and empathy.
How to prevent screen dependency in young people
Roles of parents and educators
Parents and educators play an important role in preventing screen dependency in young people. It is their responsibility to set rules regarding the use of different devices. At the same time, they must offer alternatives so as not to frustrate children, and also to balance digital life and real life.
Signs of possible screen addiction
It is important to watch for signs of possible screen addiction, such as excessive time spent in front of screens, irritability when access to screens is limited, and neglect of other activities.
What attitude to adopt when a parent feels helpless in front of a screen?
Parents should seek help and resources to learn how to manage their children's screen use. Indeed, children also learn to manage their time effectively.
The importance of limiting screen exposure time
It is crucial to limit screen exposure time to prevent the risks associated with excessive use.
Recommendations for screen time for children under 9
Experts recommend avoiding screens completely for children under 2 years old, limiting screen time to a few minutes per day for children 3 to 6 years old. They advise restricting to 1 hour per day for 6 to 9 year olds, for educational purposes and under adult supervision.
Recommendations for those over 9
From 9 to 12 years old, it should still be for educational purposes, without Internet access and always under parental control. Between 12 and 16 years old, they are allowed to surf the web, always under parental supervision. From 16 to 18 years old, they may benefit from broader Internet access, still in an educational and informative framework, without the constant presence of an adult.
Screens in life and their impact on children's development
Influence of screens on children's development
Screens can have both positive and negative effects on children's development. It is important to establish a healthy balance between the digital world and the real world.
Positive and negative effects of screens
Screens can be used for educational purposes, but beware of excess. All the negative effects inherent to this overexposure have already been mentioned above.
Using screens to support learning
Screens can be used constructively to support learning. It is a matter of choosing informative and educational content.
Prevention and intervention strategies for proper screen use
It is important to implement prevention and intervention strategies to encourage proper screen use. This can consist of educating children about the negative consequences of overexposure while highlighting the positive effects of moderate use. Offering alternatives such as creative, playful, or sports activities encourages responsible and moderate use of technology.
In conclusion,
Monitoring children's screen use and establishing clear limits help prevent the risks associated with excessive use, such as addiction. Parents and educators play an essential role in promoting balanced and responsible screen use. Offering alternatives to screens ensures balanced and healthy development in children, while strengthening social and family bonds.
Disclaimer
This article is based on scientific studies and aims to provide reliable and up-to-date information. However, it does not replace the advice of a health professional.
References
Footnotes
REF [^1^] Neophytou, E., Manwell, L., & Eikelboom, R. (2019). Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Neurodevelopment, Learning, Memory, Mental Health, and Neurodegeneration: a Scoping Review. Link to the article ↩ ↩2 ↩3
REF [^2^] McArthur, B., Volkova, V. G., Tomopoulos, S., & Madigan, S. (2022). Global Prevalence of Meeting Screen Time Guidelines Among Children 5 Years and Younger: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Link to the article ↩ ↩2 ↩3
REF [^3^] Liu, W., Wu, X., Huang, K., Yan, S., Ma, L., Cao, H., Gan, H., & Tao, F. (2021). Early childhood screen time as a predictor of emotional and behavioral problems in children at 4 years: a birth cohort study in China. Link to the article ↩
REF [^4^]Moitra, P., & Madan, J. (2022). Impact of screen time during COVID-19 on eating habits, physical activity, sleep, and depression symptoms: A cross-sectional study in Indian adolescents. Link to the article ↩ ↩2