Dangers of Screen Time: Safe Duration for Children

The development of digital technology has brought significant changes to children’s lives. The use of gadgets such as mobile phones, tablets, televisions, and computers has become part of daily activities. However, the increasing exposure to screens raises concerns about its impact on children’s physical health, mental well-being, and social development. Therefore, understanding the dangers of screen time is essential for parents and educators.

Definition of Screen Time

Screen time refers to the amount of time a child spends interacting with digital devices, whether for entertainment, education, or communication purposes. The dangers of screen time can be divided into two main categories:

• Passive screen time, such as watching videos
• Active screen time, such as using educational apps or playing interactive games

Recommended Screen Time Duration by Age Group

Various global health organizations, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), have established recommended screen time limits to help maintain children’s well-being. In general, the recommendations are as follows:

1. Children under 2 years old
   Children in this age group should not be exposed to screens at all, except for video calls with family. At this stage, direct interaction with parents and the surrounding environment is far more important for cognitive and emotional development.
2. Children aged 2 to 5 years
   Screen time should be limited to a maximum of 1 hour per day. The content consumed must be educational, high-quality, and age-appropriate. Parents are encouraged to accompany children to help them understand what they watch and prevent exposure to unsuitable content.
3. Children aged 6 to 12 years
   In this age range, technology use increases for both learning and entertainment. However, screen time should still be limited to around 1 to 2 hours per day outside school activities. It is important to balance gadget use with physical activity, social interaction, and adequate rest.
4. Teenagers aged 13 to 18 years
   Teenagers have greater digital needs, especially related to education and communication. However, total screen time outside school activities is still recommended not to exceed 2 to 3 hours per day. Monitoring social media use is crucial to avoid sleep disturbances, anxiety, and reduced academic focus.

Negative Impacts of Excessive Screen Time

Uncontrolled gadget use can cause various health and behavioral problems, including:

• Sleep disturbances: Blue light from screens inhibits melatonin production, making it difficult for children to fall asleep or maintain quality sleep.
• Reduced concentration: Constant exposure to fast-paced content can lower long-term focus.
• Behavioral issues: Children may experience tantrums, aggression, or gadget addiction.
• Physical health problems: Excessive screen time can lead to lack of physical activity, obesity, and vision problems.
• Social and emotional difficulties: Reduced real-world social interaction may hinder children’s communication skills.

How to Manage the Dangers of Screen Time

Parents play an important role in balancing gadget use. Some steps that can be applied include:

• Establishing daily rules: Set clear screen time limits based on the child’s age.
• Choosing quality content: Prioritize educational, interactive, and age-appropriate material.
• Avoiding gadgets during meals and before bedtime: Screen use should be stopped at least one hour before sleep.
• Accompanying children during gadget use: This helps children understand the content and avoid harmful exposure.
• Encouraging alternative activities: Invite children to engage in physical activities, outdoor play, reading, or family interaction.
• Setting a good example: Children tend to imitate their parents’ habits, including gadget use.

Conclusion

Screen time is not something that must be completely avoided, but it must be managed wisely. By setting age-appropriate limits, choosing quality content, and ensuring a balance between digital and physical activities, parents can support children’s healthy and optimal growth in the digital era. With the right approach, screen time can offer educational benefits without compromising physical, mental, or social health.

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