(Too Much Screen Time Not Good for Kids by Dr. Carolyn Kent, first appeared in the February 2014 edition of the Public Opinion Newspaper. To read it online, click here to visit www.publicopiniononline.com.)
The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) says children under 2 years old should not watch television. Dr. Carolyn Kent, board certified pediatrician at Keystone Pediatrics, explains why screen time can be detrimental and what to do instead.
7 hours a day
Today’s average child spends 7 hours each day in front of a screen (TV, video games, computer, phones) and ninety percent of parents report that kids under the age of 2 are exposed to TV regularly. Although high quality content can be educational for children, most kids must be over 2 years of age to understand.
What’s the problem?
Technology may distract and entertain children but time in front of a screen is time not spent in creative play, learning how to solve problems, developing motor skills like learning how to crawl, walk or improve coordination or interact with others. They might also be exposed to risky or illicit content if not monitored closely.
Other concerns
Children under the age of 2 have difficulty distinguishing between a real person and a TV person. TV people don’t respond to children and it’s very important for kids to learn how to interact with people. We know children develop verbal skills by having their parents talk to and react to them.
Watch screen time
Kids should not have a TV in their bedroom or sleeping area and no phones or video games at the dinner table. Kids who spend a lot of time in front of the TV or computer often have less developed language skills, have more attention problems, school problems, sleep issues, and are at higher risk for obesity.
Alternatives to screen time
Instead of screen time, kids should get plenty of physical activity and time with their parents. Playing games as a family, reading books, and getting physical activity in the fresh air are beneficial to a child’s brain development. Try small jogging trampolines, hopping balls, and other toys that promote indoor activity.
