Screens and learning disabilities in children

Whether at home, at school or even in public places, children are constantly exposed to electronic devices. However, this dependence on screens can have harmful consequences on their development, particularly when it comes to their learning abilities.

Screen-related learning disabilities

Learning disabilities are specific difficulties that affect a child's ability to acquire certain academic skills, such as reading, writing, mathematics or concentration. These disorders can be caused by a variety of factors, such as genetic problems, brain trauma, developmental disorders or environmental factors such as excessive exposure to screens.

One of the main reasons why screens can cause learning disabilities in children is the excessive amount of time spent in front of these devices. When a child spends hours playing video games, watching videos or surfing the Internet, he or she significantly limits the time that could be devoted to more cognitively enriching activities, such as reading, writing or mathematical exercises. This reduction in learning time can lead to a delay in the development of essential academic skills.

What's more, screens can also have a negative impact on children's concentration and attention. Constant visual and audio stimuli from screens can disrupt their ability to focus on a given task, making them more easily distracted and less able to concentrate in class. This difficulty in concentrating can lead to a drop in school performance and a feeling of frustration among children.

Another consequence of excessive exposure to screens is the impact on children's sleep. The blue light emitted by screens can disrupt circadian rhythms and suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone essential for regulating sleep. When children spend time in front of screens before going to sleep, this can lead to sleep disorders such as insomnia or difficulty falling asleep. Poor quality sleep can have a significant impact on children's cognitive abilities and learning.

Language disorders* related to children's use of screens :

Screens can reduce verbal interaction. Indeed, when children spend too much time in front of a screen, they are less inclined to communicate with those around them. They may prefer to play games or watch videos alone, rather than interact with other children or adults. This reduction in verbal interaction can hinder a child's language development.

What's more, excessive screen use can also lead to delays in language acquisition. Children need real interactions to learn to speak and understand words. Spending too much time in front of a screen can limit learning opportunities and delay language development.

Finally, screens can also have an impact on the quality of children's language. Television programs or online videos can often use simplified language or lack vocabulary. Children who spend a lot of time in front of a screen may therefore be less exposed to complex and varied language, which can affect their ability to express themselves correctly and understand the language of others.

It is therefore essential to limit children's exposure to screens and to favor activities that are more beneficial to their development. Parents and educators can encourage children to read books, play board games, engage in sports or artistic activities, which will stimulate their creativity, imagination and cognitive skills. It's also important to set clear limits on screen time and establish strict rules, such as no screens before bedtime or no screens during meals.

In conclusion, screens can have a detrimental effect on children's learning abilities. By encouraging children to engage in activities that strengthen their academic skills and foster their creativity, parents and educators can contribute to their personal development and academic success.