The Impact of Screen Time on Young Children

Picture this: a family gathered around the dinner table, sharing stories, laughing, and enjoying each other’s company. It’s a heartwarming scene, isn’t it? But nowadays, it seems like these moments are becoming rarer. Our busy lives and the ever-present glow of screens are changing how we connect with each other, especially with our little ones.

I recently visited some relatives and saw something that really made me pause. Their adorable 3-year-old daughter was glued to a smartphone, expertly navigating YouTube, skipping ads, and even sending WhatsApp messages! She would only eat while watching videos. When I asked about it, her mom explained it was just easier this way — it kept her daughter calm and allowed her to get things done.

Now, I get it. Parenting is tough, and sometimes we all look for shortcuts. But here’s the thing: raising a child isn’t meant to be easy. Those struggles and challenges? They’re actually important. They’re how we help our kids grow into strong, capable, and well-rounded individuals.

In today’s digital world, it’s becoming more and more common to see even the tiniest tots swiping and tapping on smartphones and tablets. As parents, we might wonder: Is this actually helping our kids, or could it be causing harm we don’t see yet?

Let’s chat about what’s really going on when we hand our kids a screen, and explore some ideas for nurturing their growth in this digital age — without making anyone feel guilty or judged. After all, all parents are just trying their best to raise happy, healthy kids in a world that sometimes feels like moving too fast.

The Current Landscape

Everywhere we look, we see parents handing devices to their children, often to keep them calm or entertained. It’s an easy solution in the moment, but are we considering the long-term impact? Recent studies suggest that excessive screen time may have more significant consequences than we realize.

What the Research Says

A study of nearly 2,000 children found that those who spent more than the recommended one hour per day on screens were more likely to experience behavioral problems, developmental delays, and language difficulties. These effects were seen in children as young as three years old.

Behavior and Emotions

Children who spent two or more hours a day on screens were more likely to show signs of anxiety, depression, and aggression compared to those who watched less than an hour. It’s important to note that these behaviours might not be immediately obvious but could develop over time.

Developmental Milestones

The same study found that children with higher screen time were more likely to struggle with achieving age-appropriate developmental milestones. This includes skills like communication, problem-solving, and social interactions — all crucial for your child’s growth.

Language Development

Perhaps most concerning is the impact on language acquisition. Children exposed to three or more hours of screen time daily were almost twice as likely to experience delays in language development compared to those with less screen time.

The Importance of Real-World Experiences

When children spend excessive time on screens, they miss out on critical real-world experiences. Playing outdoors, interacting face-to-face with family and friends, and engaging in hands-on activities are all essential for healthy development. These experiences help build social skills, creativity, and physical coordination in ways that screens simply can’t replicate.

For Finding Balance, what’s a parent to do?

So, The goal isn’t to eliminate screens entirely — they’re a part of our world, we can’t deny that doesn’t exist. Instead, aim for balance. Try to limit screen time to no more than an hour a day for children under 5, as recommended by the World Health Organization. Fill the rest of the day with play, reading, and family interactions.

Start by setting clear rules about when and where screens can be used. Create screen-free zones in your home, especially at the dinner table and in bedrooms. Most importantly, model good habits yourself — children often mimic their parent’s behaviour.

Healthy Alternatives to Screen Time In my opinion

Instead of reaching for a mobile device to entertain or calm your child, consider offering engaging alternatives that promote development and creativity. Provide your child with age-appropriate toys that encourage imagination and problem-solving, such as building blocks, puzzles, or art supplies. These activities not only keep children occupied but also help develop fine motor skills and cognitive abilities. Outdoor play equipment like balls, jump ropes, or even a simple cardboard box can spark hours of creative play and physical activity.

Reading together is another powerful alternative to screen time. Keep a variety of books easily accessible and make storytime a regular part of your daily routine. This not only fosters language development and literacy skills but also creates valuable bonding moments. Additionally, involve your child in simple household tasks appropriate for their age. This could include helping to sort laundry, assisting with meal preparation, or caring for a pet. These activities teach responsibility, build confidence, and provide opportunities for rich conversations and learning experiences that screens simply can’t match.

The Way Forward

Remember, every child is different, and these guidelines are just that — guidelines. The key is to be mindful of how much time your child spends on screens and to ensure they’re getting plenty of diverse, real-world experiences. By doing so, you’re setting them up for healthier development and a brighter future.

“Children are not likely to follow advice unless they see that it is being practiced in the lives of those who give it.” -David Bly

So thank you for reading this and I wish every parent took their duty seriously and fulfill them beautifully. Leave comments on your opinions about this too