Navigating Children's Screen Time in the Digital Age

Zarin Tasnim Samira

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In today's generation, it has become increasingly common for parents to allow their children to engage

with gadgets from a very young age, sometimes as early as 1.5 years old. This trend presents a

significant challenge, one that often goes unaddressed by parents.

Gone are the days when children were raised without the aid of technology. In today's generation,tablets and smartphones are readily available to children, thanks in part to the unintentional

insensitivity of parents. Many parents, overwhelmed by the demands of modern life, resort

to using devices to pacify their children during mealtimes or to alleviate their cries.

Additionally, other caregivers, such as family members, also rely on screento manage children's behaviour, further exposing them to digital media.

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However, there are instances where parents are reluctant to rely on gadgets to manage their children, despite being aware of the negative consequences. For example, parents living far from their families may find it challenging to juggle multiple responsibilities, such as work and household chores, while caring for their children. In such cases, parents may reluctantly resort to allowing their children to watch cartoons on a laptop to cope with their busy schedules.

Unfortunately, excessive screen time can have detrimental effects on children. It can instil a sense of

entitlement, as children learn that persistent demands are often met with access to devices. This can

lead to disobedience and a lack of engagement in other activities, as seen in the case of my own

brother, whose addiction to gaming created a communication gap between us.

Moreover, prolonged screen time can deter children from outdoor activities, hindering their

physical development . Worse still, it has been linked to conditions such as autism ,

casting a shadow over parents' lives.

Despite these challenges, there are some positive aspects to children's access to devices.

Educational content available on platforms like YouTube can enhance children's cognitive

skills and provide valuable learning opportunities.

However, the growing awareness of the dangers associated with excessive screen time among

children is often overlooked. It falls upon parents to take proactive steps to limit their children's

screen time and prioritise other forms of engagement.

In conclusion, striking a balance between children's screen time and other activities is essential in

today's digital age. While technology can offer benefits, parents must remain vigilant and ensure

that their children's exposure to screens is carefully managed to promote healthy development.