Is Screen Time Truly Harmful for Young Children? What Every Parent Needs to Know
Oct 21, 2024
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In the present-day digitally driven world, screens are inescapable and present in every aspect of daily life. From tablets to smartphones, digital media is now the core of communication and learning. This increasing prevalence has naturally raised concerns among parents about the implications of screen exposure on young children’s development. Traditionally, many believed that prolonged screen time could hinder a child’s physical, cognitive, and emotional growth. However, recent research introduces a more nuanced perspective.
Here is what parents should consider regarding screen time for young children and strategies for managing its use effectively.
Knowing the Repercussions of Screen Time on Development
Recent studies indicate that the effects of screen time may not be as unequivocally harmful as once thought. Earlier research suggested that screen exposure could delay development in children, leading to impairments in social and cognitive skills. However, current findings reveal that it is challenging to isolate screen time as a sole determinant of developmental delays. Many factors, including a child’s temperament, family dynamics, socioeconomic background, and the educational level of parents, profoundly shape developmental outcomes.
According to insights shared by St. Xavier’s schools in sector 81 gurgaon, moderate and selective screen use, especially when oriented around educational content, can contribute positively to a child’s learning. Interactive activities and age-appropriate educational programmes on screens can reinforce early learning concepts and stimulate curiosity. That said, the quality and context of screen use are critical. A well-selected educational app can be enriching, whereas indiscriminate viewing of random content may offer little to no developmental benefit and could even prove counterproductive.
Guidelines on Screen Time for Young Children: What Experts Recommend
Leading child development experts suggest a cautious approach to screen use for young children. For infants and children under 18 months, screens are generally discouraged except for video chatting with family members, which can promote social connection. For children between 18 and 24 months, screen time can be cautiously introduced but only under adult supervision, where parents or caregivers guide and engage with the child to enhance the learning experience. After age two, screen time may be expanded to about one hour per day, focusing on high-quality, educational content.
Despite the best intentions, many families struggle to adhere to these guidelines, reflecting a gap between ideal recommendations and practical reality. St. Xavier’s School in Sector 81, Gurgaon, highlights the need for updated, flexible recommendations that take into account the complexities of modern family life, where screens often play a role in facilitating learning, communication, and even family bonding.
The Value of Co-Viewing
One significant insight from recent research is the concept of "co-viewing," where parents or caregivers watch content alongside their child actively engaging with what is being viewed. By discussing the content, asking questions, and relating what is seen to real-life experiences, co-viewing can enhance comprehension, emotional understanding, and social skills. This shared experience encourages children to interpret and interact with screen content thoughtfully rather than passively.
St. Xavier’s, Sector 81, also observes that co-viewing supports children in learning empathy and emotional literacy, which are essential building blocks of social development. During the COVID-19 pandemic, when outdoor and peer interactions were limited, co-viewing became particularly valuable, serving as a constructive way for parents to connect with their children while navigating screen time. Engaging with screens in this manner can foster deeper communication between parents and children, promoting a positive screen-time experience that goes beyond mere entertainment.
Recognising the Potential Risks
While some screen time may support learning, it cannot substitute for real-life interactions, which are indispensable for social and emotional development. Excessive screen exposure risks diverting time away from critical physical activities that are essential for motor skill development and overall health. Additionally, prolonged screen time can diminish the quality of face-to-face interactions, which young children need to cultivate language skills, empathy, and self-regulation.
A further concern is the effect of screen exposure on sleep patterns. Blue light emitted by screens can disrupt circadian rhythms, particularly when screens are used close to bedtime. As a best practice, screens should be avoided in the hour preceding sleep. Another consideration is the suitability of content; news programs or content intended for older audiences may not be appropriate for young children, as it could cause confusion or fear and detract from more beneficial activities such as reading or imaginative play.
Practical Strategies for Managing Screen Time Effectively
For families who use screens regularly, implementing the following best practices can help ensure screen time remains a constructive part of a child’s routine:
Limit Duration
For children over two years, limit screen exposure to one hour per day. Screen time should not disturb sleep schedules, or any form of physical activities, or social interactions.
Select Quality Content
Choose educational, age-appropriate programming that aligns with your child’s developmental stage. Engaging, well-crafted programs can help reinforce positive learning outcomes.
Engage Through Co-Viewing
Co-viewing allows parents to connect with children by discussing content and asking thought-provoking questions. This practice transforms screen time into an interactive experience.
Avoid Background Media
Background media can be distracting and reduce the quality of play and reading activities. Turn off screens when they are not actively in use, especially during focused family times.
Set a Positive Example
Model balanced screen habits yourself. Children are more likely to follow positive behaviours when they see adults managing their own screen time responsibly.
Making Screen Time a Positive Experience
When managed thoughtfully, screen time for young children need not be harmful. Excessive or unstructured screen use may have adverse effects, but moderate and purposeful screen time, centred on high-quality content, can support learning and foster curiosity. This way parents can transform screen time into a constructive component of their child’s development. Staying informed about guidelines and making mindful decisions will help you provide an environment that supports your child’s overall growth and well-being.
For further guidance on pre nursery admission in gurgaon, parents are welcome to contact St. Xavier’s School, Sector 81 at +91-9599286490/91.