The World Health Organization (WHO) provides specific guidelines for screen time for children below 5 years to promote healthy growth and development. Here are the details
WHO Guidelines on Screen Time for Children Below 5 Years:
Children under 1 year:
- No screen time at all. This includes TV, computers, tablets, and smartphones.
Children aged 1 to 2 years:
- No screen time is recommended for 1-year-olds.
- For 2-year-olds, sedentary screen time should be limited to no more than 1 hour per day. Less is better.
Children aged 3 to 4 years:
- Sedentary screen time should be no more than 1 hour per day. Less is better.
Effects on Brain Development:
Excessive screen time in young children can have several adverse effects on brain development, including:
- Cognitive Development:
- Delayed Language Skills: Excessive screen time can interfere with language development. Children learn language best through interaction with caregivers and peers, and too much screen time can reduce these interactions.
- Attention Problems: High screen time exposure has been associated with attention issues and difficulty focusing.
- Social and Emotional Development:
- Reduced Face-to-Face Interaction: Screen time can reduce opportunities for children to engage in face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for developing social and emotional skills.
- Behavioral Issues: There is some evidence that excessive screen time can lead to increased behavioral problems, including aggression and temper tantrums.
- Physical Health:
- Sleep Disruption: Screen time, especially before bed, can interfere with sleep patterns, leading to insufficient sleep, which is crucial for overall development.
- Reduced Physical Activity: Excessive screen time is associated with a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to obesity and other health problems.
- Visual and Auditory Development:
- Visual Strain: Prolonged screen use can cause visual strain and discomfort.
- Hearing Issues: Loud sounds from devices can affect hearing over time, especially if headphones or earbuds are used frequently.
Recommendations for Parents:
- Encourage Interactive Play: Engage children in interactive, non-screen-based activities such as reading, playing with toys, and outdoor activities.
- Model Good Behavior: Limit your own screen time to set a positive example for your children.
- Create Technology -Free Zones: Designate certain areas of the home, like the dining room and bedrooms, as screen-free zones.
- Prioritize Sleep and Physical Activity: Ensure children get enough sleep and engage in physical activities daily.
By following these guidelines, parents can help foster a healthier environment that supports optimal brain development and overall well-being for their children.
