_11zon-1732005712539.jpg)
Many parents notice that their toddlers want to use phones, tablets, or TVs all the time. Whether it’s watching cartoons, playing games, or scrolling through videos, screens are everywhere. It’s easy to hand a device to a child to keep them busy. But is this habit harming your toddler? On this topic, Dr Haridharshan GJ, Senior Consultant – Neonatology & Paediatrics, Apollo Cradle & Children’s Hospital, Bangalore, Electronic City, warns that too much screen time can be bad for young children’s health and development.
Why Are Screens So Tempting?
Screens are now a big part of daily life. They are in our homes, cars, restaurants, and even shopping malls. For toddlers, screens can be fun and exciting. Bright colours, funny sounds, and moving pictures catch their attention. Parents may also use screens to keep their child calm or entertained while they do chores or work.
ALSO READ: Is Air Conditioning Good for Newborn Babies? Find Out the Ideal Temperature Range
Top Stories
-1751527287915.png)
-1751352905978.jpg)
The Dangers of Too Much Screen Time
Dr Haridharshan GJ explains, “While screens can be helpful and entertaining, excessive screen time is detrimental to a toddler's health and development.” The first few years of life are crucial for a child’s brain growth, learning to talk, and building social skills. Here’s how too much screen time can hurt toddlers:
1. Speech Delay
Toddlers learn to speak by listening to people, watching faces, and trying to talk themselves. Dr. Haridharshan says, “Prolonged screen time can deprive toddlers of these opportunities, affecting their language skills and ability to express themselves effectively.” If a child spends more time with screens than with people, they may not learn new words or how to communicate well.
2. Behavioural Issues
Too much screen time can make toddlers impatient, sad, or even aggressive. Fast-moving videos can shorten their attention span, making it hard for them to sit still or focus on simple activities. Dr Haridharshan notes, “Excessive screen time can influence behaviour, leading to impatience, sadness, aggression, or difficulty calming down.”
3. Sleep Problems
Bright screens, especially before bedtime, can disturb a toddler’s sleep. The light from screens tricks the brain into thinking it’s still daytime. This makes it harder for children to fall asleep and stay asleep. Poor sleep can affect their mood, learning, and health.
4. Less Physical Activity
Toddlers need to move, play, and explore to grow strong and healthy. If they spend too much time sitting with a device, they miss out on running, jumping, and playing. This can lead to weak muscles, poor posture, and even eyestrain.
How to Keep Toddlers Healthy
Dr Haridharshan GJ advises, “To ensure healthy growth and development, toddlers need ample time for play, reading, singing, and exploration.” Activities like building with blocks, drawing, or playing outside help children learn and grow. Parents should set limits on screen time and encourage more real-world play.
He adds, “While moderate screen use can be beneficial, excessive screen time can harm toddlers' health and development. Parents must strike a balance between screen time and healthy play, allowing their children to benefit from technology while not missing out on the benefits of growing up.”
A study published in JAMA Paediatrics found that children who spent more than one hour per day on screens had lower scores in language and thinking tests at age three. The study highlights the importance of limiting screen time for toddlers’ healthy brain development.
ALSO READ: How To Burp Your Newborn Baby: Easy Tips For A Happy Tummy Of Toddlers
Conclusion
Screens are everywhere, but too much screen time can harm your toddler’s speech, behavior, sleep, and physical health. It’s important for parents to set limits and encourage more play, talking, and exploring. As the expert says, finding the right balance helps your child grow up healthy and happy.