Does your child also struggle to focus on one task or stay in one place? If so, you are not alone in facing this challenge.

Health experts note that the growing addiction to mobile phones and screens among children has severely impacted their well-being. Between online schooling, gaming, watching short-form videos (reels), and engaging with social media, children are spending a significant amount of time in front of screens. While mobile devices first entered children's lives due to the shift to online classes during the COVID-19 pandemic, they have since become a part of their daily routine.

The concerning aspect is that this affects more than just their eyesight or physical activity levels; it also impacts their mental health and cognitive development. Children who spend excessive time on mobile devices often exhibit a lack of concentration, irritability, and sleep-related issues.

This raises the question: how exactly does screen time affect a child's brain?

Children are falling prey to digital device addiction.

Medical reports indicate that one in every three children aged 8 to 14 in India has become addicted to digital devices—a deeply concerning situation. Due to this growing reliance on mobile phones, children find it increasingly difficult to sustain focus on a single task for any length of time. Furthermore, using screens late into the night disrupts their sleep. Studies have shown that nighttime screen use can lead to a decline in sleep quality by as much as 45 percent.

A lack of sleep has been linked to various health issues, ranging from an increased risk of obesity to inflammation and memory-related problems.

What have the studies revealed?

Numerous studies are warning parents about the rising use of mobile devices among children. According to a report published in *JAMA Psychiatry*, children who spend more than two hours a day in front of a screen may experience a reduction in their ability to focus by up to 60 percent. Changes in the mood and behavior of children who are constantly glued to their mobile phones are becoming increasingly apparent.
Such children may exhibit heightened irritability and impatience over trivial matters.
This also negatively impacts their studies and daily activities.

How is the brain affected?

Children’s brains are in a developmental stage. During this phase, they need to learn from their surroundings, play, and interact with others. However, when most of their time is spent on mobile phones, their connection to the real world begins to diminish.

The habit of watching reels and short videos can further exacerbate these issues. Because these formats feature rapidly changing content, children become accustomed to instant, fast-paced entertainment. Consequently, they may find it difficult to focus on tasks like reading a book or concentrating on a single activity for an extended period.

How can children’s screen time be reduced?

Health experts state that excessive screen time poses risks to everyone—children and adults alike—making it essential to take steps to limit it.

Set a fixed duration for children’s mobile phone usage.
Ensure that screens are turned off at least an hour before bedtime.
Encourage children to engage in outdoor games and physical activities.
Increase time spent on family interactions and shared recreational activities.
Avoid using mobile phones during meals or in the bedroom.

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