Screens and children's creativity: how to make good use of them?

Impact of screens on children’s creativity

According to a recent study, excessive consumption of added sugar is associated with a decrease in creativity in preadolescent children REF [^1^]. Moreover, another study showed that the majority of children are exposed to screens during meals, which is a risk factor for obesity REF [^2^]. Obesity can in turn affect a child’s creativity and overall well-being.

What are the effects of screens on children?

Screens can have varied effects on children, ranging from distraction to reducing the time spent on creative activities such as drawing, reading or outdoor play. In addition, overexposure to screens is likely to cause eye strain, sleep disturbances and decreased attention.

How can screens negatively impact children’s creativity?

Screens can limit the time children spend exploring their environment, interacting with other children and participating in creative activities. One study showed that children’s exploratory behaviors are essential to creativity REF [^3^]. When children spend too much time in front of screens, they may miss various opportunities for exploration and creative play.

Encouraging creativity away from the screen in young children

Free play and exploration spaces

It is necessary to provide children with spaces where they are free to play and explore without the distraction of screens. This can include outdoor play areas, reading corners or art zones.

Reading is an excellent way to stimulate children’s imagination. Parents should encourage reading by providing a variety of age-appropriate books and by establishing regular reading times.

Activities such as drawing, painting, music or dance help develop children’s creativity. It is important to encourage these activities from a very young age.

Spending time outdoors and exploring nature helps stimulate children’s creativity. Walks in the woods, visits to the beach or picnics in the park are opportunities for children to connect with nature. They also help them become aware of the world around them.

Creativity and self-esteem in school-aged children

Creativity is closely linked to self-esteem in children. Children who feel confident in their creative abilities are more likely to take risks, try new things and develop their imagination.

Children facing screens: is the proper development of their creativity compromised?

Excessive use of screens may compromise the development of children’s creativity. However, with moderate and mindful use, screens can be a valuable tool to complement and enrich children’s creative experiences.

How to choose the best educational tablet when the screen becomes omnipresent?

When choosing an educational tablet for children, it is advisable to look for apps that encourage creativity, problem-solving skills and critical thinking.

Age groups affected by screen use

Infants and toddlers

Before age 3, infants and young children should absolutely not be exposed to screens. At this age, face-to-face interactions and physical play are essential for development.

Between 3 and 6 years, only a few minutes of exposure per day are tolerable. Nevertheless, the recommendation remains zero screen time. 

Between 6 and 9 years, screen exposure for children should be limited to one hour per day. These sessions should be used for educational purposes. It is the parents’ responsibility to monitor and set limits on their use. Human interaction is also to be prioritized throughout, and even before or after each session.

From 9 to 12 years, it should be educational screen time without Internet, always under adult supervision. However, it is recommended to balance screen time with other activities.

Adolescents

Between 12 and 16 years, access to the Internet is possible in a limited way, of course, and always under adult supervision.

Young people

From 16 to 18 years, a bit more freedom of Internet access is allowed. The presence of an adult during browsing is no longer mandatory. Nevertheless, this should remain within an educational and informative approach that will help them in their learning.

Examples of good practices for children’s screen use

The educational and sports app

There are many educational apps that help children learn while having fun. In addition, sports apps can encourage them to be active. They need to expend energy.

Physical games, such as board games, puzzles or construction toys, are excellent alternatives to screens. They also contribute to the healthy development of the child’s brain. 

In conclusion:

Screens are now an integral part of our daily lives. It is therefore the responsibility of parents and educators to ensure that their use is beneficial for children’s development. By making informed choices and balancing screen time with other activities, it is possible to ensure that children’s creativity and imagination are not compromised.  It is therefore important to find this balance to ensure children’s healthy and creative development. 

Disclaimer :

The information provided in this article is based on scientific research and is intended for educational purposes. It is always recommended to consult a health or education professional for specific advice.

References

Footnotes

REF [^1^] : Added sugar and dietary fiber consumption are associated with creativity in preadolescent children ↩

REF [^2^] : The Impact of Digital Screen Time on Dietary Habits and Physical Activity in Children and Adolescents ↩

REF [^3^] : Examining the impact of children’s exploration behaviors on creativity. ↩