The Truth Concerning Children and Screens is Mostly Unknown

By the time research on screen time reaches the general public, it is frequently presented in stark contrasts: either in the form of regulations outlining harsh time restrictions or news articles with headlines like “Are Screens Bad for Kids?”

But in truth, there hasn’t been any conclusive study on on-screen usage, mainly because there haven’t been any good long-term studies yet.

That’s starting to change as psychologists and other specialists on child development examine young children’s and adolescents’ use of tablets, phones, and screens in more subtle detail.

Researchers are now closely observing the kind of information that children are consuming on their digital gadgets. They are examining the surrounding circumstances of screen time, such as parenting and socioeconomic position.

And they’re getting ready for the long haul by developing new longitudinal research that will aid in resolving complicated queries about children, teenagers, and screens.

Before proceeding further, you should read this Remarkable Book based on peculiar children.

Screen Time and Kids’ Health: 4 Shocking Facts

Kids are now skilled at multi-screening, utilizing two or more devices simultaneously. For example, they could use a tablet to browse the internet while watching television.

1. Unlike Convicts, Tweens Seldom Go Outside

Less than one hour per day, that. These startling statistics came from a poll of 2,000 parents of children aged 5 to 12. According to the study, which was conducted as part of Percil’s Dirt is Good campaign:

• Children play on screens for twice as long as they do outside.
• Less than 60 minutes are spent playing outside each day by 3 out of 4 children.
• On average, 1 in 5 children doesn’t play out at all.
• Three of four parents reported that their children frequently balk at playing games without electronics.
• Two out of every three parents claim that their children spend less time outside than they did.

2. By the Age of 12, 4 In 5 Tweens Use Social Media

The most miniature age for a Facebook, Instagram, or YouTube account is 13 years old, which may not be surprising given the prevalence of tweens on social media. Four of every five teens surveyed by CBBC Newsround have a social media account. Additionally, more than 1 in 5 people were victims of cyberbullying.

Facebook and Instagram were the two most popular social media platforms for users under 13 (49% and 41%, respectively). However, even though social networking is a preferred source of screen entertainment for tweens, they don’t use it nearly as frequently as their older adolescent siblings.

3. 1 In 4 Youngsters Think Games Are Exercise

According to the charity Youth Sport Trust’s Class of 2035 report, which examines the part physical education, sport, and physical exercise play in the growth of future generations, this is the case. The CEO of the Youth Sport Trust, Ali Oliver, warned that future generations risk becoming “hostages to mobile gadgets” and dedicating their whole lives to technology.

According to a new study, children become less active as early as seven, and the reduction lasts into puberty. This is occurring at a time when youth physical activity is declining. According to specialists, a large portion of the harm was brought on by the time youngsters spent in front of screens and the fact that they were transported to school rather than walking.

4. Average Age for First Smartphone Is 10.3 Years

According to Influence Central’s new research of 500 US mothers, which examines the expanding role technology plays in today’s kids’ lives, this is the case. (It’s worth reading.) The average age of smartphone ownership was 12 years old in 2012.

However, there is opposition to the trend of tweens owning more smartphones. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates recently admitted to reporters that he waited until his children turned 14 before allowing them to have smartphones. And Common Sense Media CEO James P. Steyer only gives his children smartphones when they enter high school.

Recommendation

Doctors and other healthcare professionals should advise parents and other caregivers of young children on how to limit screen time to enhance children’s health and development in the digital age. The following guidelines are more specific:

Reduce your screen time:

Screen time is not advised for kids under the age of two.

Limit routine or regular screen use for kids aged 2 to 5 to no more than 1 hour per day.

Ensure children under five do not regularly participate in sedentary screen time.

Maintain “screen-free” periods throughout the day, especially during family meals and book sharing.

Given the possibility of melatonin-suppressing effects, avoid screens at least an hour before bed.

Reduce the dangers of screen time:

When using a screen, be attentive and involved, and wherever you can, co-view with kids.

Consider the content and give engaging, educative programs priority.

Use parenting techniques that promote relaxation, self-control, and setting boundaries.

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