In the digital age, screens have become a constant presence in our lives, including those of our youngest children. This phenomenon has sparked intense debate in educational and family circles about the effects these technologies may have on child development. Beyond simply prohibiting or allowing their use, it is crucial to understand how content and context influence their impact.
Physical and neuropsychological impacts
Prolonged screen use can have physical consequences such as eye strain, dry eyes, and childhood myopia. In addition, replacing essential activities such as free play, physical exercise, and social interaction with excessive device use increases the risk of obesity and learning problems. These activities are fundamental to children’s overall development.
From a neuropsychological perspective, the effects are equally significant. Research has shown that unsupervised screen time can negatively affect functions such as attention, language, and emotional control. However, when an adult interacts with the content alongside the child, the results can be positive, promoting learning and attention.
Content: the key to impact
Not all screens are the same, and the content children consume plays a decisive role. Exposure to age-inappropriate content can hinder the development of skills such as attention, inhibitory control, and language. For example, studies have linked excessive television consumption in young children to language development delays and lower academic performance.
On the other hand, educational content designed specifically for children can be a valuable tool. Digital programs that promote skills such as attention and working memory have been shown to have positive effects, especially when accompanied by family interaction. This is particularly relevant in socially vulnerable contexts or for children with special needs, such as autism.
Recommendations for healthy use
Organizations such as the American Academy of Pediatrics and the World Health Organization offer clear guidelines for screen use in childhood. These include avoiding use in children under 18 months (except for video calls), limiting time to one hour per day for children aged 2 to 5, and prioritizing educational content that is supervised and by adults. In addition, screen use before bedtime and as a distraction tool is discouraged.
Technology as an ally, not a substitute
The challenge is not to eliminate screens, but to integrate them in a balanced and conscious way into children’s lives. Technology can be a powerful tool for promoting learning, exploration, and social interaction, provided it is used for a clear educational purpose and under supervision.
Continue your professional career
If you are interested in learning more about the impact of technology on education and child development, UNIB’s Master in Education with a specialty in ICT in Education offers comprehensive training. This program will prepare you to design innovative educational strategies that integrate technology effectively and responsibly. Transform your teaching practice and contribute to the development of inclusive digital education!
Sources:
Effects of screens on young children: the importance of what they see and how they see it
