Screen time has become a central part of daily life, offering both convenience and challenges, especially for parents raising young children. Devices like smartphones and tablets were introduced as helpful tools, yet as we watch how children, especially teenagers, are often glued to these screens, it raises questions about dependency. This is no longer just about convenience; it’s starting to look like an addiction.
The Impact of Screen Time on Children
The founder of Khudi Pakistan, Sarwat, focuses on mental and emotional health and works to help both children and parents. She explains that kids today grow up in a world where their mental needs often go unnoticed, leaving parents unaware of the struggles their children face in balancing technology use.
Why Technology Became a Necessity
When the pandemic hit, screens quickly became essential, extending kids’ screen time far beyond recommended limits. Online classes, homework, and even socializing took place on screens, turning devices into a necessity for children. What used to be two hours a day has stretched to eight or even ten. Parents, often exhausted by the pressures of work and life, found themselves relying on screens to occupy their kids.
Recommended Screen Time for Different Ages
Studies show that children aged 0 to 18 months should have no screen time. Instead, real interaction is critical for developing social and communication skills. Even for toddlers and school-aged children, the recommendation is 30 minutes to two hours, maximum. But how can parents, who may already feel stretched, control the usage and find healthier alternatives?
The Hidden Effects of Excessive Screen Time
Screens can slow a child’s natural learning, especially when used during activities like eating. For instance, if a child watches videos while eating, they might not develop muscle control or taste preferences as well as they should. Speech delays have also become a common concern among children heavily exposed to screens early on.
Moving from Screens to Engaging Alternatives
Sarwat emphasizes that screen time should be managed slowly, not suddenly. Reducing a child’s screen time by simply taking away devices can create stress and frustration. A gradual reduction, combined with engaging in real-life activities like sports, travel, and social interaction, offers children the rewards they seek from screens in healthier ways.
Building a Balanced Approach to Screen Time
Creating a healthy relationship with technology starts at home. Parents and children can set screen-time rules together, turning it from a point of conflict into an opportunity for family bonding. For example, if the child’s screen time is reduced, it’s an invitation for parents to spend more time together offline. Simple routines like family dinners without screens or shared activities like reading can make a big difference.
Finding Balance for the Future
Screen time has its benefits, and no one can deny the impact of technology on our lives. However, parents need to be mindful of setting boundaries that give children the best of both worlds—access to technology and the freedom to enjoy real-life experiences. Through gradual adjustments, parental involvement, and fostering rewarding offline activities, a balanced relationship with screen time is possible.