Two sides of the same SCREEN!

A recent survey stated that 92.1% of 1 year olds have already used a mobile device or exposed to screen time some starting as young as when 4months old. And todays norm is that most children are plugged into an electronic device even before they learn to ride a bike.

Using a device or being exposed to screen time is not all bad and can be part of a healthy childhood if it is not used in excess. There are ways to enhance the learning advantages while keeping children being exposed to too much screen time.

In Infants, it takes around 18months for them to understand what all the bright visuals on TV represent. During the early stages of development learn better when interacting with those around them.

So what can the disadvantages be when children are exposed to too much of screen time?

· Children who spend more than 4hours in front of the TV consistently tend to be overweight.

· Too much exposure to the continuous bright visuals can lead to inattention and sleep disorders

· Temper tantrums and mood swings can increase

· It can lead to delayed language development and social interaction

· Physical activities might decrease

· Depending on the shows viewed it can develop vices or a distorted view of the world.

Screen time is a large part of our everyday lives. So how do we use it to our advantage to enhance learning in our children?Pediatricians have suggested guidelines.

· In babies and toddlers upto 18months, no screen time preferably.

· Between 18 to 24months, children can be exposed to screen time with a caregiver or parent present.

· In, preschoolers and above using of screen time should be capped off at 1hour.

· If used for longer periods there should be breaks in between and parents should monitor the content watched.

It is always preferable if TV time can also be family time where educational shows are encouraged and views are interacted. TV time should not take up the space of physical activity or sleep. Set TV rules for school days. Choose the right TV shows. Limit shows that show violence or risky behaviors.

TV or Mobile devices need not necessarily be an unescapable evil, use in the right way to promote healthy views, healthy children and positive behaviors.