Dr. Rafat Trifiti, a pediatric neurologist at Marengo Asia Hospital, revealed the dangers of excessive screen exposure in early childhood, noting that it can contribute to speech delays and social communication difficulties. He emphasized that while excessive screen time is not the direct cause, early and continuous exposure during the formative years is a significant influencing factor.
Dr. Trifiti explained that children learn best through direct interaction, such as conversations, eye contact, facial expressions, movement, and interactive play. When children become preoccupied with digital devices, they miss out on these crucial learning opportunities.
Event Details
In his remarks, Dr. Trifiti noted that children who experience speech delays due to excessive screen time show rapid improvement when screen time is reduced and social interaction opportunities are increased. He recommended minimizing screen time for children under the age of two to the bare minimum, allowing device use only for video calls with family members.
For children over the age of two, Trifiti advised limiting screen time to less than one hour per day. He also encouraged parents to select high-quality content, monitor their children's device usage, and engage with them during viewing.
Background & Context
Concerns about the impact of technology on children are rising globally. Previous studies have shown that excessive use of digital devices can lead to health and psychological issues, including obesity, anxiety, and depression. In this context, calls from experts to reduce screen time and promote physical and interactive activities for children are increasing.
The early years of a child's life are a sensitive period for growth and development. Therefore, social interaction and physical activities play a vital role in building language and social skills. It is essential for parents to be aware of these risks and take effective steps to protect their children.
Impact & Consequences
The negative effects of excessive screen use can extend to multiple areas, including education and social interaction. Children who spend long hours in front of screens may face difficulties interacting with their peers, affecting their social skills and ability to express themselves.
Moreover, these habits can lead to physical health problems, such as vision impairment, sleep issues, and weight gain. Therefore, awareness regarding the safe and balanced use of technology is crucial.
Regional Significance
In the Arab region, where technology usage rates among children are increasing, these recommendations should be a focal point for families. With the growing reliance on smart devices for education and entertainment, it is essential for parents to adopt effective strategies to manage screen time.
These recommendations can contribute to promoting healthy growth for children in the Arab world, helping to build a generation capable of positively interacting with society. Encouraging physical and interactive activities can have a beneficial impact on children's mental and physical health.