Health problems such as obesity, delays in language and cognitive development, irritability and other behavioral disorders are some of the risks that it can lead to.
The screens (cell phones, tablets, computers) They currently represent an ultra-fast and universal communication tool through which multiple content material of varied quality and indeterminate duration can be transmitted.
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Considering these characteristics, it recommended for children and adolescents that the use is mainly educational in order to reinforce cognitive learning and thus favor the adequate social development of these age groups, representing a real challenge for parents and guardians to control the time that a child spends in front of a screen, problems triggered by excessive use, and exposure to inappropriate content.
Overexposure to screen use can lead to various health problems such as weight gain, generating different degrees of obesity from an early age, lack of restful sleep in time and quality, behavioral disorders with irritability, decay, delays in language and cognitive development that lead to poor school performance, deficit of attention and emotional disorders such as addictions and self-esteem problems.
He exposure time to screens restricts the movement and even more so the displacement of children and adolescents thus increasing the sedentary behavior, Therefore, it is considered a risk factor that favors the appearance and development of the most prevalent non-communicable diseases such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiac circulatory conditions.
It is important to encourage the practice of leisure and sports activities appropriate to the abilities and ages of children and adolescents.
Importance of play for brain development
Importantly, the benefit of unstructured playtime is more valuable to a young child’s brain development than electronic media.
Children under 2 years old have more chances to learn when they interact and play with their parents, siblings, as well as with other children and adults.
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Recommended time for screen use
The World Health Organization (2019 and 2020) recommends that:
- Children under 2 years: No screens
- From 2 to 4 years: Up to one hour (60 minutes)
- From 5 to 17 years old : Do not spend two hours (120 minutes)
Helpful tips for smart screen use:
*Exposure to screens must be monitored by parents, taking care of the time and content according to the age and understanding of the child so that it is a positive factor in their physical, cognitive, emotional and social development.
*Parents should emphasize the selection of programs so that they have high educational quality and are accompanied by family dialogue.
*Strengthen reading comprehension sessions, recreational times outdoors and the initiation of sports activities of your choice to maintain adherence to it.
*The screens should not accompany families during lunch/dinner time, or during the time dedicated to extracurricular activities or study.
*Avoid using it two hours before bedtime.
*Explain to children from an early age, the consequences of excessive use and the rules for responsible and safe use: do not give personal information, do not meet strangers, do not enter bank details, use correct language.
*Parents and caregivers should set an example for the little ones and try as much as possible not to use screens during family time and housework.
