- In several studies, it has been found that screen time among children is more than 2 hours a day.
- Reasons for the Rise in Screen time among children:
- Role Modelling: Children usually imitate their parents/other family members and peer group.
- Educational or recreational purposes: With the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, use of Mobile has witnessed rapid and widespread acceptance.
- Working parents: They usually provide mobile phones to children’s for different purposes such as safety.
- Increased Accessibility: Proliferation of smartphones, tablets, computers, and other digital devices recently.
- Concerns:
- Mental and Physical Health Issues: High exposure may lead to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
- A sedentary lifestyle may lead to physical health issues like obesity.
- Cognitive ability and social skills: High screen time can hinder the development of important Cognitive, social, and emotional skills, such as empathy.
- Cyber Bullying and Child Abuse: Incidents of bullying and abuse are rising. Young girls are more prone to them.
- Mental and Physical Health Issues: High exposure may lead to anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.
- Way Ahead: Emphasis on physical activities, limiting screen time by creating awareness, etc.
Initiatives Taken to deal with Concerns associated with screen time
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