The current generation is more addicted to using digital devices than ever before. They handle tasks associated with day-to-day life using phones, tablets, and laptops at school and home as well. Unfortunately, kids are also getting addicted to these bright screens and harmful rays.
Today’s kids grow up with a variety of electronic devices at their fingertips. They are not able to think about a world without the internet, computers, tablets, and smartphones. Moreover, the trend of American families and the busy work schedules of parents have left kids with no other options than to stay engaged with the screens.
Although they may also learn several new aspects about life, the planet, and other interesting details through the internet; few scientific studies also link to the harmful effects of extended screen time on kids.
Whether you prefer checking the internet or Google search results to make decisions about ongoing projects and events, smartphones can provide easy access to all updates. But spending too much time with these harmful skin rays can hinder the development of a child’s brain at an early stage of life.
As per a study conducted in the year 2010, children within the age group of 8 – 18 spend almost 7 and half hours a day on the internet, TV, and digital media. But these habits can slow down the normal growth of their brain while reducing social connectivity.
The professionals at child care academies suggest following relevant schedules for screen time and other activities as well.
Here we have listed few harmful effects of extended screen time on kids:
Behavioral problems
Reports reveal that elementary school children that spend 2 to 3 hours watching TV shows or use another device are likely to experience some behavioral problems. The list may include reduced emotional stability, poor social developments, and attention-related issues.
Therefore, it is better to eliminate extended screen times for kids and allow them to play outdoors in a natural and hygienic environment.
Educational problems
As most of the children these days spend a maximum of their time using smartphones and computers, they rarely pay attention to their academic responsibilities. Most of the kids that watch TV late at night do not have efficient memory or retention ability.
Therefore, it is better to take away the TV from your child’s bedroom and help them follow adequate sleeping routines every day.
Health problems
Kids that spend more time watching TV or using smartphones make lesser bodily movements as compared to those who prefer playing outdoors. They are reported to experience symptoms of obesity and overweight due to lack of fitness activities.
At the same time, kids that use smartphones late at night do not enjoy quality sleep at night. The extended screen times create disturbances with the normal sleep cycle of the human body.
Therefore, it is better to eliminate cell phone usage before bedtime so that kids can enjoy quality sleep. Proper sleep routines can automatically improve sleep hours and can energize the body of your child to stay active all day long.
Considering all these harmful impacts of extended screen time for kids, it is better to reduce the usage of smartphones, TV, and other digital gadgets in your family environment. You should lead by example to help your kids follow some healthy routines while avoiding too much screen time.