Impact of screen time on children’s health and development

How much time does your child spend in front of a screen, be it TV, playing with a smartphone, computer, or enjoying computer games? Even though screen time for children can be educational, chances of going overboard are high. This poses a potential risk in relation to children’s health and development.

According to the WHO, to grow up healthy, children under five need better quality sleep and more time for active play. They should spend less time watching screens or being restrained in prams and seats. Research shows that it is necessary to recognise that early childhood is a time of rapid development. Families have a prime opportunity to shape lifestyle patterns that significantly improve health.

Effects of screen time on children’s health and development

Disruption of attention span

Concentration and focus are foundational for children’s success, with these abilities developing early in life when their brains are highly responsive to their environment. Activities like shared reading allow for this processing of words, images, and voices. However, the continuous exposure to on-screen content can negatively affect their developing attention span and focus.

Diminished ability to control impulses

Boredom plays a crucial role in early children’s development, teaching children to manage frustration and control impulses. When young children are constantly stimulated by screens, they miss opportunities to develop self-reliance and social engagement for entertainment, potentially leading to frustration and hindering their imagination and motivation.

Reduction of empathy

Screens can impede babies’ development of emotional recognition and frustration control, and they reduce time spent on key brain-building activities like play and social interaction. If screen use is necessary, ensure the content is high-quality and engage with your child. The benefits of limiting or eliminating screen time in early childhood are long-lasting.

Obesity

Greater screen time in children, particularly watching TV and videos, is associated with a higher risk of excess weight. Having electronics in their bedrooms also increases this risk. Furthermore, screen exposure can lead to a preference for advertised junk food and overeating. Learn more about the connection between screen time and body weight.

Irregular sleep

Increased screen time is linked to sleep problems in children, making it harder for them to fall asleep and leading to inconsistent sleep schedules. This lack of sleep can then result in fatigue and increased snacking.

Behaviour issues

Primary students with over two hours of daily screen time – whether watching TV, playing video games, or using other devices – are at increased risk for emotional, social, and attention problems. Notably, video game use is also linked to a higher incidence of attention issues in children.

Reduced academic performance

Primary students with screens in their bedrooms typically perform worse on tests than those without.

Aggression

Excessive exposure to violence in media can make children less sensitive to it. Consequently, they might begin to view aggressive behaviour as an acceptable way to resolve conflicts.

Less play time

Spending too much time on screens reduces the opportunities for active and imaginative play.

WHO recommendations for children’s health and development

Infants

• Sleep recommendations – 14-17hrs for 0-3 months of age and 12-16hrs for 4-11 months of age (including naps)
• Restraint (prams, high chairs, strapped on a caregiver’s back) no more than 1 hour at a time
• Screen is not recommended
• Engaging in reading and story telling when sedentary
• Various physical activity several times a day (interactive floor-based play, at least 30mins tummy time for those not yet mobile)

Children 1-2 years of age

• Sleep recommendations – 11-14hrs of good quality sleep, including naps, with regular sleep and wake-up times
• Restraint (prams, high chairs, strapped on a caregiver’s back) no more than 1 hour at a time
• Screen is not recommended for 1-year-olds, no more than 1 hour for 2-year-olds, less is better
• Engaging in reading and story telling when sedentary
• At least 180 mins in a variety of types of physical activities at any intensity, moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity included, spread throughout the day

Children 3-4 years of age

• Sleep recommendations – 10-13hrs of good quality sleep, which may include nap, with regular sleep and wake-up times
• Restraint (prams) no more than 1 hour at a time
• Engaging in reading and story telling when sedentary
• At least 180 mins in a variety of types of physical activities at any intensity, of which at least 60 mins is moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity, spread throughout the day

Steps to improve your children’s development

1. Clear away the background distractions

Even when a TV is on in the background, it can easily capture your child’s attention. If you’re not actively watching a programme, it’s best to switch it off.

2. Keep the bedroom free from electronics

To better control your child’s screen time and the websites they access, keep electronic devices like TVs and computers in common areas, as children with these items in their bedrooms typically engage in more screen time.

3. Eat at the dining table

When children eat or snack while using electronic devices, it contributes to increased screen time. This habit can also promote mindless eating, potentially leading to weight gain.

4. Plan quality screen time for your children

Choose quality videos and programmes over channel surfing. Utilise parental controls on your TV and computers, and always preview computer games and apps before your child uses them.

5. Join your children

Try to watch TV with your child and discuss important themes like family values, violence, or drug abuse. When junk food ads appear, explain that TV doesn’t always promote healthy choices.

6. Record programmes and watch them later

This approach allows you to avoid commercials promoting toys, junk food, and other products. When viewing live broadcasts, using the mute button during ad breaks is a good strategy.

7. Active screen time

Use screen time as an opportunity for movement by having your child to stretch or move around while watching a show. Commercial breaks are a great time for a family jumping jack challenge. Prioritise computer games that encourage physical activity.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing paediatric homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and well-being, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our paediatric care, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.