HEALTHPLAN MAGAZINE

New research from Japan has shed light on the potential developmental consequences of exposing children as young as one year old to screens. The study, conducted by Japanese researchers, discovered that children who engaged in television viewing at an early age faced challenges in speaking and motor skills as toddlers.

To investigate the impact of screen time on early childhood development, the study tracked 57,980 children, monitoring how their exposure to screens affected their ability to walk, talk, solve problems, and develop social skills.

Dr. Midori Yamamoto, from Chiba University, commented on the findings, stating, "Prolonged television viewing time from the first year of life had a negative impact on later development." She also suggested that health professionals should recommend social support to parents who tend to rely on media to mitigate the negative consequences of excessive screen use.

Balancing Screen Time with Quality Interactions

While the study highlights concerns about screen time, it's essential to recognise that not all screen exposure is detrimental. Age-appropriate, educational content can be beneficial for a child's cognitive development. Many child-friendly applications and platforms are designed to encourage learning and creativity.

Parental involvement also plays a significant role in mitigating potential negative effects of screen time. Co-viewing and discussing content with children can enhance its educational value. Setting limits and establishing screen-free zones within the home can help manage screen time.

Moreover, experts emphasise that quality interactions matter as much as screen time restrictions. Engaging in meaningful conversations, reading books together, and fostering real-world experiences contribute positively to a child's development.

Physical Activity and Sleep Patterns

Excessive screen time, particularly at a young age, can reduce opportunities for physical activity. Encouraging children to engage in active play and outdoor activities is crucial for the development of motor skills, coordination, and physical health.

It's also worth noting that excessive screen time, especially close to bedtime, can disrupt a child's sleep patterns. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone responsible for regulating sleep. Maintaining healthy sleep routines is essential for overall development.

Individual Variation and Guidelines

The impact of screen time can vary from child to child. Some children may be more resilient to its effects, while others may be more sensitive. Factors like parental involvement, content choices, and overall family routines can influence how screen time affects a child's development.

To help parents navigate screen time, health organisations and experts provide guidelines and recommendations. These guidelines often consider age-specific recommendations, such as limiting screen time for children under two years and gradually introducing age-appropriate content as children grow.

In conclusion, while there is growing concern about the potential negative effects of screen time on child development, it's important to approach this issue with a balanced perspective. Screen time can offer educational benefits when used appropriately and in moderation, but it should not replace essential aspects of a child's development, such as physical activity, social interaction, and quality family time. Parental guidance and monitoring play a crucial role in ensuring that screen time enhances rather than hinders a child's growth and well-being.

Source

https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamapediatrics/fullarticle/2809313
https://ustimespost.com/exactly-how-screen-time-can-damage-your-baby-from-delayed-speech-to-struggling-to-walk/