Hidden hazards of screen time for children

In today's digital world, screens are as ubiquitous as schoolbooks and toys.

- 

Children, even toddlers, are increasingly exposed to smartphones, tablets, computers, and televisions—not only at home, but in schools, daycare centres, and even in the backseat of cars. While technology can enhance learning and offer entertainment, excessive screen time poses a host of health, psychological, and developmental hazards that demand urgent parental and societal attention.

The COVID-19 pandemic greatly accelerated screen exposure among children, as online learning became a necessity. Even after the pandemic's peak, many families continued to rely heavily on screens to occupy their children. According to a report by Common Sense Media, children, aged 8 to 12, in the United States spend an average of five hours a day on screens, while teens spend about 7.5 hours—not including screen use for schoolwork.

While some screen use can be educational or social, unregulated, or excessive exposure, is linked to a growing list of physical, mental, and behavioural health concerns.

Perhaps the most immediate and visible effects of screen time are on children's physical health. Sedentary screen-based activities are displacing physical play and outdoor recreation. This trend is contributing to a disturbing increase in childhood obesity. Prolonged sitting, combined with unhealthy snacking during screen use, sets the stage for weight gain, poor posture, and reduced cardiovascular fitness.

Another common complaint among children is eyestrain. Known as computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain, symptoms include dry eyes, headaches, blurred vision, and difficulty focusing. Blue light from screens also disrupts melatonin production, delaying the onset of sleep and reducing its quality. Sleep deprivation, in turn, affects everything, from attention span to immune function and emotional regulation.

In young children, screen time can even delay motor skill development. Instead of manip-

Screen time