Rising Concerns as Excessive Screen Time Shows Alarming Effects on Children
New Delhi,November 17,2025 โ- pediatricians and childโ development expertsโ are sounding the alarm over the increasing prevalence of excessive screen time among children,linking it to a range of developmental โขand health issues. As digitalโฃ devices become ever more integrated into daily life, parents are urgedโค to be vigilant forโ red flags indicating potentialโฃ harm.
The pervasive nature of smartphones, tablets, and televisions presents both opportunities and challenges for children’s growth. While technologyโค can offerโ educational benefits, experts warn that unchecked screen exposure-particularly at younger โขages-can negatively impact cognitive development, emotional regulation, and physical health. โThisโ growing concern stems from a noticeable riseโฃ in attention problems,โข sleep disturbances, and behavioral issues observed โฃin children with high screen time habits.
Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media professional with overโ 13 years of experience in journalism โand digital content strategy, highlights the urgency โฃof addressing โthis issue. “Understanding the potential consequences of excessive screen time is crucialโ for โขparents navigating the digital age,” she notes.
Several key indicators suggest a child’s screen time might potentiallyโ beโค problematic. These include difficulty focusing, increased irritability or mood swings,โ reluctance to engage in physical activity, and disruptions in sleepโข patterns.Experts also point โคto potential social-emotional delays, such as difficulty reading social cues or forming healthy relationships,โ as possibleโ consequences.
The Americanโข Academy of Pediatrics recommends limiting screen time for children aged 2-5 toโ one hour per day of high-quality programming,โฃ and discouraging screen use altogether for children under โข18 โmonths, except for video-chatting. For older children and teenagers, the emphasis shifts to establishing โขhealthy media habits and open communication โฃabout onlineโ safety and responsible use.
Parents are encouraged to create screen-free zones and times, model healthy technology habits themselves, and prioritize activities that promote physical activity, social interaction, and creative play. Early intervention andโข mindful monitoring are essential to mitigating the potential risks associated with excessive screen time and fostering healthy development in children.