In today’s digital landscape, the impact of excessive screen time on young minds cannot be ignored. This concern weighs heavily on the minds of parents and educators alike. According to the National Library of Medicine, (2023) many families find themselves exceeding the recommended screen time daily limits. The consequences are significant, affecting not only immediate behaviour, but potentially long-term cognitive health.
My Experience
Reflecting on my own journey as a young child, I recall a simpler time when television viewing was regulated and screen time was a carefully monitored privilege. Fast forward to the present, and screens have become ubiquitous, portable, and all too often, unchecked. I found myself slipping into the habit of using screens as a quick fix for boredom for my children. Only then did I realize the toll it was taking on their brain health and overall well-being. (I explain more on brain health below, under Research-based Findings).
Recognizing the need for change, I implemented a new routine focused on fostering creativity, outdoor exploration, and limited screen exposure. By stashing away the remote controls, I replaced morning screen time with fun and engaging art activities, such as HeyDoodle (purchased on Amazon) and storytelling. I soon witnessed a positive shift in my children’s behaviour and attention spans.
Understanding the varying needs of my 19 months and 3 year-old children, I tailored their screen time accordingly. I ensured that this scheduling complemented, rather than dominated their daily activities. I was further encouraged by one of Dr Ajay Prakash’s (@dr_ajayprakash_pediatrician) Instagram posts about screen time for young kids. Here, he recommends a balanced approach of screen time and other brain stimulating activities. Other activities should be interactive or have an educational content with a focus on learning. This, however, should be for limited durations alongside ample outdoor play and parental engagement.
By prioritizing quality over quantity, we can help our children thrive in both the digital and physical worlds. As I navigated this delicate balance, I delved into research to better grasp the implications of excessive screen time on young minds.
Research-Based Findings
Multiple research highlight the importance of screen time moderation. They reveal that while screens can offer valuable stimuli, overexposure can lead to overstimulation and hinder cognitive development (NBC News 2019). A significant pointer compares the difference in the brain activity of a child watching a digital screen and listening to story from a book. The former grooms an under-developed cognitive system. Watch this brief video by NBC News on how screens may affect a child’s brain development.
Dr Daniel Amen, (2024) Founder of Amen Clinics, cautions against digital addictions, emphasizing the need for nurturing brain-healthy habits from an early age. Here’s a summary of some of the key points mentioned in his presentation, The #1 Foundation to Raising Mentally Strong Kids. He talks about optimizing brain health premised on 3 main categories:
- loving your brain;
- avoiding anything that hurts your brain; and
- engaging in regular brain-healthy habits.
Children need to be nurtured in the above 3 categories to avoid mental health issues. He likens a child’s brain development to a vibrant city under construction. Enhancing brain development in young children involves talking to them about their brain. Also, taking targeted supplements, eating brain-healthy foods and getting sufficient sleep. Brain health is also concerned with coordination exercises, such as tennis and dancing to regulate the cerebellum.
Dr Amen further stresses that digital addictions and excessive screen time are bad for the brain. They wear out the brain’s pleasure centres; increase the risk of anxiety, depression and ADHD. Issues of brain health usually stem from the fact that many children grow up being more reliant on social media than on their brain/themselves. Therefore, to raise a mentally strong child, delay giving young children cell phones, social media and video games for as long as possible. If you must, supervise their use.
Conclusion
The goal isn’t to eliminate screen time entirely but rather to find a sustainable balance that prioritizes holistic brain health. Therefore, set limits and/or delay your little ones’ exposure to the digital world. By setting realistic routines and fostering a culture of mindful consumption, we can empower our young children to navigate the digital age with resilience and creativity. If you must give them a screen gadget, download age-appropriate educational apps involving reading, math and critical thinking. Though the world may be digital, the wonders of the outdoors still hold invaluable lessons for our young children to explore and cherish.
Reference
Ajay Prakash. 2024. Screen time rules for kids: 2-3 years. Accessed on Instagram @dr_ajayprakash_pediatrician
Ajay Prakash. 2024. Screen time rules for kids: 3-4 years. Accessed on Instagram @dr_ajayprakash_pediatrician
Amen, D. 2024. The #1 Foundation to Raising Mentally Strong Kids. Accessed & available on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXLzyBJUZjs
Brushe, M. E., Lynch, J. W., Melhuish, E., Reilly, S., Mittinty, M. N., & Brinkman, S. A. (2023). Objectively measured infant and toddler screen time: Findings from a prospective study. SSM – population health, 22, 101395. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ssmph.2023.101395
Merriam-Webster Dictionary. 2024. Screentime. Accessed on: 15 April 2024. Available at: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/screen%20time
NBC News. 2019. Screens May Affect Your Child’s Brain Development. Accessed & available on YouTube at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ndOB-vXwXxM
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