In the digital age, early and excessive exposure to screens is fuelling fears about its impact on children's development. Indeed, toddlers are now growing up in the company of traditional television, but also with digital devices such as smartphones and tablets. This article examines the risks associated with this overexposure, and suggests strategies for maintaining a healthy balance that promotes children's social-emotional and cognitive development.
The risks of early exposure to screens for children's health and development
One study found that children at risk of socio-emotional delay were significantly more likely to have multiple daily routines occurring with a screen (Raman et al., 2017) REF[^1^].
Impaired parent-child interaction
Early and intensive exposure to screens can disrupt children's growth in a number of ways. Altered parent-child interactions due to attention divided by screens limit opportunities for attachment and communication, crucial to a child's emotional development.
Delayed language development
What's more, delayed language development can occur when children spend more time in front of digital media than in conversation with adults. This reduces their exposure to rich and varied language.
Difficulty decoding emotions and expressing themselves
Difficulties in decoding emotions and expressing themselves are also exacerbated by a lack of real social interaction. This makes it difficult for children to progress in complex social situations.
The importance of real interactions in a digital world for social and emotional development
Face-to-face communication is irreplaceable and indispensable to children's social and emotional development. Tactile exchanges and facial expressions between parent and child are fundamental to their emotional well-being and security. These moments of physical closeness strengthen the affective bond and support emotional development.
Learning through play and imitation in young children
Play allows children to explore their environment, develop social skills and solve problems creatively. Through this activity, little ones also learn to negotiate, share and collaborate with others.
Optimal brain development through tactile and emotional stimulation
Diverse sensory and emotional experiences provide stimuli and promote learning. An environment rich in stimuli contributes to balanced cognitive and emotional development.
How to help children and teenagers develop social skills despite screens
To help children and teenagers develop their social skills in a world dominated by digital technology. It's vital to encourage face-to-face exchanges and group activities that focus on verbal communication and social development. Establishing screen-free moments, such as family meals and game nights, strengthens family ties and improves communication skills.
Raising awareness of the risks associated with early exposure to connected tools, including sleep disorders and obesity, is paramount to promoting a balanced lifestyle. Wolf et al. (2018) REF[^2^] highlight the importance of understanding early exposure to screens as an avoidable risk factor for children's health and growth.
How can we preserve exchanges by limiting exposure to screens for their proper development in a digital world?
Tips for reducing toddler screen time
Establishing screen-free time slots and creating technology-free daily routines encourage natural growth and creativity. Encouraging screen-free activities from an early age helps to establish healthy habits.
Alternative activities to promote eye and body contact
Board games, art activities and sports encourage social interaction and motor skills, while providing opportunities for eye contact and emotional expression.
Setting an example for children as a parent
Parents need to limit their own use of screens to promote a model of healthy behavior. By adopting a balanced use of screens themselves, they show the way forward.
Recommendations for video games and multimedia content
It's vital to choose video games and programs that are not only age-appropriate, but also encourage interaction and active learning. These contents should be used to complement, not replace, real-life contacts and activities.
Warning signs of overexposure to screens
Withdrawal, difficulty relating to peers
A waning interest in social interaction may indicate overexposure to screens. Parents need to be attentive to these behavioral changes, which sometimes show an imbalance in the consumption of digital devices.
Passivity, lack of interest in physical games
A preference for sedentary activities in front of a screen is sometimes a sign of physical and cognitive imbalance. Favoring a variety of physical activities helps restore a healthy balance. According to the latest statistics, 84% of young people aged twelve and over use a cell phone.
Delayed motor and language development
Delays in these areas require an assessment of the child's use of digital tools and daily activities. Reducing the time spent in front of these technologies may be necessary to stimulate motor skills and language.
Resources for parents
Tools such as parental control apps, advice from healthcare professionals, and a variety of books and websites offer strategies and tools for managing connected media use and promoting healthy growth. These resources aim to help parents navigate the complex digital landscape and make informed decisions about their family's digital use.
In conclusion
A balanced and conscious approach to the use of screens is a weapon that contributes to the healthy development of children. Understanding the risks associated with early and excessive exposure, and implementing proactive strategies, are valuable tools for parents. They can then support their children in acquiring robust social and cognitive skills in a digital world.
Disclaimer
This article is for information purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
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