Smart Screen Time: Finding the Right Balance

In today’s world, eliminating screen time entirely from a household is nearly impossible. With smartphones, laptops, tablets, and televisions being a part of everyday life, children are naturally exposed to screens. So, the real question is: Are screens really damaging? How do we manage screen time in a way that is not harmful?

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The Harmful Effects Of Excessive Screen Time

Numerous studies have highlighted the negative impact of excessive screen exposure on young children. Research by the American Academy of Paediatrics (AAP) suggests that excessive screen time can lead to delays in speech development, reduced attention span, and increased behavioural issues. Studies also show that children exposed to too much screen time may experience difficulty with emotional regulation and social interactions (AAP, 2016). A study by Twenge & Campbell (2018) found that increased screen time correlates with higher risks of anxiety and depression in children and adolescents. Additionally, prolonged exposure to screens, particularly before bedtime, interferes with melatonin production, affecting sleep quality (Carter, Rees, Hale, Bhattacharjee, & Paradkar, 2016).

According to guidelines from the World Health Organization (WHO, 2019) and the AAP (2016):

 

One major reason screens are hard to resist is the dopamine effect they create. Each time a child watches a screen, the bright visuals, high-definition clarity, fast-moving animations, and engaging sounds trigger dopamine release in the brain. This “reward chemical” provides a sense of pleasure, making screens highly addictive—often faster than a spreading wildfire. Over time, children begin craving this instant stimulation, which reduces their patience for real-world activities that require effort and engagement.

The answer is no—it’s unrealistic to completely avoid screens, especially in a household where adults are frequently using laptops or mobile devices. Even if screens are not being used for entertainment, a young child may not understand the difference between a parent working on a laptop and watching videos for fun. Instead of enforcing a rigid ‘no-screen’ rule, we should focus on moderation and mindful use of screens.

How to Use Screens in Moderation

Here’s how to ensure children use screens responsibly:

Balancing Technology and Real-Life Engagement

The goal is not to ban screens completely but to ensure they are used wisely and in moderation. As caregivers, it is essential to set boundaries and model healthy screen habits ourselves. By implementing mindful screen practices, we can help children develop a balanced relationship with technology while fostering creativity, focus, and real-world interactions.

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