The extensive use of toddlers of electronic media, such as game consoles, mobile phones, and tablets is linked to an increase of emotional and behavioral issues by the age of five, warns a new study published online in the journal BMJ Open.
The study, entitled "High-dose electronic media use in five-year-olds and its association with their psychosocial symptoms: a cohort study," identified hyperactivity, poor concentration, short attention span, and trouble connecting and forging friendships as some of the effects on toddlers of spending more than one hour of screen time every day.
The researchers believe that gadgets reduce children's time spent on reading, playing, and interacting with family and other kids their age that could significantly affect their social and emotional development.
Child playing on iPad
Excessive Use of E-Media Linked to Problems in Making Friends
Study lead author and social scientist Janette Niiranen of the Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare in Helsinki said that children's e-media use patterns have long-term risks based on their 'CHILD-SLEEP' study that monitored the health and psychological well-being of 699 children from birth to age five.
The researchers assessed the amount of screen time of children aged 18 months and five years. They found that the average 32 minutes a day that 18 months old children spent on screen time increased to 114 minutes daily on average by age five, MailOnline reported.
Moreover, the researchers noted that almost 25% of all the 18 months old participants spend more than one hour a day using e-media, but by age five it increased by 95%. About 67% of five-year-olds are found to spend more than one hour a day watching television programs, while one out of ten spends the same time for gaming.
The recommended amount of time should not exceed 60 minutes of using electronic media daily. The study showed that extended screen time for 18 months old is associated with a 59% increased risk of developing problems in peer relationships by age five. While excessive gaming at age five is linked to a heightened risk of hyperactivity.
Additionally, too many television programs were associated with an increase in attention and concentration difficulties, hyperactivity, impulsivity, and other behavioral and emotional issues. However, the researchers noted that their study does not show a causal link between screen time and behavioral problems, BMJ reported.
ALSO READ: WHO Issues New Guideline on Screen Time Restrictions for Children
How to Limit Your Kids' Screentime
There are a few basic parenting guidelines to establish ground rules for screen time according to the New York Times. The first one is to aim for balance, which is like a balanced diet, wherein there is a time for gadgets but not to the expense of physical activity and connecting to people in the real world.
The second is for parents to become role models for children. Kids tend to copy their parents' behavior and may feel the need to compete with devices for attention. with that said, set boundaries for work time and family time and use media the way you want your children to use it.
Lastly, make using electronic media devices a family affair by setting rules as a family. Parents should be involved in their child's tech experience and tailor their approach to every child. One method may work for one but may not work for the other child.
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