Screen addiction is a threat hanging over children today. Screens are ubiquitous in our daily lives, just as they are in those of our little ones. However, excessive use can lead to serious problems for them. This article warns of the dangers of screen addiction in children, based on recent scientific studies.
Screen addiction in children
What is screen addiction?
Screen addiction is characterized by excessive and compulsive use of digital devices, to the point where it interferes with the individual's daily life REF [^1^].
The risks and consequences of screen addiction
Children overexposed to screens can develop a variety of problems, such as attention disorders, sleep problems and behavioral problems REF [^2^]. In addition, it can affect their neurological and cognitive development REF [^1^].
Prevention and advice to avoid screen addiction
It's vital to set clear limits on screen time and encourage children to take part in other activities. Parents play an essential role in setting these limits and promoting balanced screen use REF [^3^]. Spending time together as a family without screens strengthens family bonds and creates precious memories.
The dangers of overexposure to screens for children and teenagers
Developmental effects in children and adolescents
Overexposure to screens can also have harmful effects on the social and emotional development of children and adolescents REF [^1^].
Too much screen time and the risk of obesity
Children who spend too much time in front of screens are also at risk of developing obesity, due to the lack of physical activity and eating habits that can accompany excessive screen use REF [^4^].
Attention disorders in children overexposed to screens
Children overexposed to screens are likely to develop attention problems and have difficulty concentrating on non-screen related tasks REF [^2^]. This can also affect their performance at school.
Principles for limiting children's use of screens
It's important to establish clear, consistent rules for screen use. At the same time, adults should encourage younger children to take part in non-screen activities. These, such as outdoor play, reading or artistic activities, contribute to children's physical, cognitive and social development.
Video games and their impact on children's health
Video games and children's health
Although video games have certain advantages, such as the development of cognitive skills, they can also have harmful effects if used excessively REF [^4^].
The benefits and risks of video games
It's important to strike a balance between the benefits and risks of video games, and to ensure that children don't spend too much time playing. Finding the right balance will promote their overall well-being.
Tips for responsible video game use
Parents must monitor their children's use of video games, checking their content. They should also ensure that these titles are age-appropriate. Group or family games are also preferable. They encourage social interaction and help develop communication and empathy skills.
How to prevent screen addiction in young people
The role of parents and educators
Parents and educators play an important role in preventing screen addiction among young people. It's up to them to set rules for the use of different devices. At the same time, they need to offer alternatives so as not to frustrate children, but also to balance digital and real life.
Signs of possible screen addiction
It's important to watch out for signs of possible screen addiction, such as excessive screen time, irritability when access to screens is limited, and neglect of other activities.
What attitude should you adopt when a parent feels helpless in front of a screen?
Parents need to seek help and resources to learn how to manage their children's use of screens. Children are also learning to manage their time effectively.
The importance of limiting screen exposure time
It's crucial to limit screen time to prevent the risks associated with excessive screen use.
Screen time recommendations for children under 9
Experts recommend avoiding screens altogether for children under 2, and limiting screen time to a few minutes a day for children aged 3 to 6. They recommend limiting screen time to 1 hour a day for 6- to 9-year-olds, for educational purposes and under adult supervision.
Recommendations for children over 9
From 9 to 12 years of age, this will still be for educational purposes, with no access to the Internet and always under parental supervision. Between the ages of 12 and 16, they are authorized to surf the Web, always under parental supervision. From 16 to 18, they can enjoy wider access to the Internet, still within an educational and informative framework, without the constant presence of an adult.
Screens in life and their impact on children's development
The influence of screens on children's development
Screens can have both positive and negative effects on children's development. It's important to strike a healthy balance between the digital and real worlds.
The positive and negative effects of screens
Screens can be used for educational purposes, but be careful not to overdo it. All the negative effects inherent in overexposure have already been mentioned above.
Using screens to promote learning
Screens can be used constructively to promote learning. The key is to opt for informative and educational content.
Prevention and intervention strategies for good screen use
It's important to put in place prevention and intervention strategies to encourage good use of screens. This can involve educating children about the negative consequences of overexposure, while highlighting the positive effects of moderate use. Offering alternatives, such as creative, playful or sporting activities, encourages responsible, moderate use of technology.
In conclusion,
Monitoring children's use of screens and setting clear limits help prevent the risks associated with their excessive use, such as addiction. Parents and educators play an essential role in promoting balanced and responsible use of screens. Offering alternatives to screens ensures balanced, healthy development for children, while strengthening social and family ties.
Disclaimer
This article is based on scientific studies and aims to provide reliable, up-to-date information. However, it does not replace the advice of a health professional.
References
Footnotes
REF [^1^] Neophytou, E., Manwell, L., & Eikelboom, R. (2019). Effects of Excessive Screen Time on Neurodevelopment, Learning, Memory, Mental Health, and Neurodegeneration: a Scoping Review. Link to article ↩ ↩2 ↩3
REF [^2^] McArthur, B., Volkova, V. G., Tomopoulos, S., & Madigan, S. (2022). Global Prevalence of Meeting Screen Time Guidelines Among Children 5 Years and Younger: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Link to article ↩ ↩2 ↩3
REF [^3^] Liu, W., Wu, X., Huang, K., Yan, S., Ma, L., Cao, H., Gan, H., & Tao, F. (2021). Early childhood screen time as a predictor of emotional and behavioral problems in children at 4 years: a birth cohort study in China. Link to article ↩
REF [^4^]Moitra, P., & Madan, J. (2022). Impact of screen time during COVID-19 on eating habits, physical activity, sleep, and depression symptoms: A cross-sectional study in Indian adolescents. Link to article ↩ ↩2
English 
French 
Arabic 
Persian