26According to a recent study, 27% of 2-year-old children were exposed to screens for more than two hours a day. This figure is far too high, as the Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children under the age of two not be left in front of a screen. Given the high number of young children overexposed to screens, it is important to understand why this problem is so important and what we can do about it. In this article, we will discuss the harmful effects of screens on young children and ways to limit their exposure. Stay tuned !
What are the risks of screens on young children?
In recent years, the use of screens has become increasingly common, with young children spending more and more time looking at them. While this trend has some benefits, such as increased access to information and entertainment, it also comes with a number of risks that parents should be aware of.
One of the most important risks is the impact on social development. Young children who spend a lot of time staring at screens tend to be less social and have more difficulty interacting with their peers. Also, staring at screens can lead to eye strain and headaches, and can even cause changes in sleep patterns.
27% of toddlers are exposed to screens throughout the day.
According to a new study conducted by INSEE and published on November 22, toddlers are using screens more than ever. The study reveals that some toddlers even use screens before they can speak.
Although the majority of parents keep their 2-year-olds away from digital screens, as recommended, some children are exposed to screens at far too young an age. According to a survey of 18,000 children born in 2011, 27% of 2-year-old children have already been exposed to screens, with a significant proportion of addiction. At 5 years old, the 16% of children who make “intensive” use of screens can spend more than an hour in front of a tablet or a smartphone.
This early exposure to screens can have adverse effects on the development of young children. Studies have shown that too much screen time can lead to attention problems, difficulties with social interaction, and language and cognitive development delays. It is essential that parents are aware of the risks associated with exposing their children too early to digital screens. By waiting until their child is at least 3 years old to introduce screens into their lives, they can help them grow up healthy and happy.
98% of 5-year-olds watch television.
According to a recent survey, nearly 98% of 5-year-olds watch television regularly. This statistic is not surprising, given the ubiquity of televisions in today’s homes. However, it is important to consider the implications of such high television viewing among young children. Studies have shown that excessive television consumption is linked to an increased risk of obesity later in life, without addressing the cognitive and behavioral impairments a child might experience at such an age.
How to succeed in limiting children’s exposure to screens?
- Set time limits for the use of screens. For example during dinner or before bedtime
- Establish rules about when and where screens can be used.
- Suggest alternative screen-free activities.
- Limit the number of hours per day their children can spend on devices. For example, they may allow two hours of screen time on weekdays and three hours on weekends.
- It’s important to lead by example and limit screen time for yourself. If kids see adults spending less time on devices, they’ll be more likely to do the same.
