A recent study has found that the use of mobile devices among preschool-aged children may have negative effects on their development.
The study, conducted by researchers at the University of Toronto and published in the journal Pediatrics, examined the screen time habits of over 2,400 children between the ages of 2 and 5. The results showed that children who spent more time on mobile devices had lower levels of development in areas such as communication, problem-solving, and social skills.
Lead author Dr. Sheri Madigan stated that while the use of technology can have benefits for children, it is important for parents to be aware of the potential risks. “We’re not saying that technology is inherently bad for children, but it’s important for parents to be mindful of how much time their children are spending on these devices and to ensure that they are engaging in other activities that promote healthy development,” she said.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children between the ages of 2 and 5 should have no more than one hour of screen time per day. However, the study found that the average screen time for children in this age group was 2.4 hours per day.
The study also found that children who had more screen time were more likely to have difficulty with self-regulation, which can lead to behavioral issues. This is concerning, as self-regulation is an important skill for children to develop in order to succeed in school and in life.
Dr. Madigan emphasized the need for parents to set limits and boundaries when it comes to screen time for their children. “It’s important for parents to be proactive in managing their children’s screen time and to have open communication with their children about the importance of balancing technology use with other activities,” she said.
The study’s findings highlight the need for further research on the effects of technology on young children, as well as the importance of educating parents on how to manage their children’s screen time. It is crucial for parents to be aware of the potential risks and to take steps to ensure their children’s healthy development.
