Screens represent a danger for children, especially if they are exposed to them too young. Indeed, screens are ubiquitous in our modern society and it is increasingly difficult to do without them. Children are particularly exposed to screens, whether on television, computers, smartphones or tablets.
These can have negative consequences on their development and health .
In this article, we will see the dangers of screens for children and we will give recommendations to limit this access to screens.
Dangers of screens for children
Screens can have negative effects on child development
Indeed, too much exposure to screens can lead to attention and concentration disorders , as well as school difficulties. Screens can also disrupt children's behavior and make them aggressive or anxious.
In addition, screens can harm the physical health of children by causing posture problems.
Screens can have negative effects on children's health
Screens can harm children's health in several ways. First, they can lead to vision problems , including astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.
Screens can also cause headaches, nausea and dizziness.
In addition, exposure to screens can disrupt children's sleep and lead to fatigue and concentration problems .
Finally, screens can be a risk factor for obesity, due to the sedentary lifestyle they encourage.
Screens can have negative effects on children's behavior
Exposure to screens can have negative effects on the behavior of children.
Indeed, screens can make them aggressive, anxious or disturb their attention and concentration.
In addition, screens can interfere with children's socialization by limiting their interaction with others.
Recommendations and prevention to limit children's exposure to screens
Limit the duration of exposure to screens
It is therefore important to limit the use of screens by children, especially the youngest. It is recommended not to let children under 6 years old use screens, and to limit their time of exposure to screens to less than 2 hours per day.
In addition, it is important to ensure that children do physical and social activities outside of screens.
Encourage alternative activities to screens
It is important to encourage children to engage in alternative activities to screens, including physical and social ones.
Physical activities can help children maintain good physical health, while social activities can help them develop social and emotional skills.
Coloring books , board games, puzzles, and toys can be great alternatives to screens.
Supervise children's screen use
It is important to monitor children's screen usage to ensure that they are not exposed to inappropriate content.
It is recommended to choose programs and applications adapted to the age of the child , and to ensure that he is not exposed to advertisements.
Provide child-friendly support
It is important to provide child-friendly support when using screens.
Indeed, it is recommended to discuss with them what they see and to explain things that seem confusing or disturbing to them.
In addition, it is important to ensure that they are not isolated when using screens, and to promote social interactions .
As we have seen in this article, there are many developmental and health hazards for children when exposed to screens at a young age.
It is important for parents to be aware of these risks and take steps to limit screen time for their children.
To do this, they can in particular limit the time of exposure, propose alternative activities and supervise the use. With careful planning and guidance, parents can help their children have a healthy relationship with screens.
