How Much Is Too Much? The Effects Of Excessive Screen Time For Kids
Experts have claimed that too much screen time on kids is not healthy. We live in a society where parents use smartphones to keep their child preoccupied. This is to prevent tantrums in public and constant nagging. This also helps parents relax and be more efficient throughout the day. However, too much screen time has effects that could be harmful to your child.
In this article, we will tackle the risks of exposing your kid to too much screen time and how to prevent them. Regardless of the device, these tips will help you keep your child healthy.
Excessive Screen Time Disrupts Your Child’s Sleep
Letting your child play with their smartphones or tablet during bedtime is not a good idea. Experts have claimed that smartphones are one of the main reasons for sleep deprivation both children and adult. This is because the light coming from the screen of these devices disrupt melatonin release which changes your child’s body clock.
Having no sleep makes your child weak and out of focus. This delays your child’s physical and learning development which could be a problem if not treated.
What to do: It’s advisable to let your kid hand over their devices before bedtime. Explain to them the reason why you’re not letting them play with their devices past-bedtime.
Too Much Screen Time Delays Learning Development
It’s true that smartphones and tablets help make your child calm and preoccupied. However, there are consequences that parents need to be aware of. Too much screen time delays the learning and speech development of kids below two years old. Children ages 3 to 7 years old tend to have behaviour problems. It’s also confirmed that too much TV viewing has been linked to increased bullying behaviour.
What to do: The best thing to do is to limit your child’s screen time. Experts have suggested a “no screen time” for children below 2 years old, and a 1 to 2 hour screen time for children ages 3-10. This is to let your child play, learn and bond with you which helps increase his or her development.
Increases The Possibility of Obesity And Other Diseases
Aside from sore, irritated and dry eyes, your child is prone to different diseases from using digital devices. Studies have shown that kids who spend too much time on digital devices and watching TV are prone to the risk of overweight and obesity. Health risks also include type 2 diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer.
What to do: Encourage your child to be more active instead of spending hours staring at the screen display of their device. Regardless of whether its a smartphone or the tv, doing physical activities will help them be healthy and fit.
Overview
Moderation is the key if you want your child to be protected from the risks of using digital devices. Do not let these devices take over your child’s attention and introduce them to different activities that will help them develop their skills. It’s also advisable to accompany your kid as they use these devices for you to explain things that they will encounter as they watch, scroll or play.
