‘Use of computer tablets transforms children into monsters – a cautionary message for all parents’

Screen time has become a convenient way for parents to keep their children occupied for a few minutes, allowing them to enjoy a cup of coffee or even use the bathroom without interruptions. However, one nanny has recently shared her concerns about the negative effects of excessive tablet use on a four-year-old girl she looks after.

In a post on Reddit, the nanny revealed that before the introduction of the iPad, the little girl had a decent attention span and enjoyed various activities such as crafts, walks, and board games. However, since being allowed to use the tablet, she has become obsessed with it and constantly demands to play on it. The nanny expressed her disappointment, stating that the child has become irritable and demanding, completely different from her previous self.

The nanny, who is also a teacher, emphasized that she has noticed a clear difference between children who have unlimited screen time and those with restricted or no screen time in a classroom setting. She expressed sadness over seeing the little girl’s transformation from an imaginative and kind kid to what she calls a “sticky iPad monster.”

The issue of excessive screen time in children has been a topic of concern among experts as well. Dr. Samina Yousuf, a pediatrician for OSF HealthCare, highlighted the links between excessive screen time and various physical and mental health issues in children, including obesity, depression, behavioral issues, and anxiety. She also pointed out that excessive screen time can disrupt children’s sleep patterns and hinder their performance in school.

Dr. Yousuf emphasized the importance of teaching children patience and real-world social skills, which are often lacking in excessive screen time interactions. Learning to wait, listen, and respond is crucial for developing healthy relationships and friendships as children grow up.

Following these concerns, Dr. Yousuf provided guidelines for screen time limits based on age. She recommends zero screen time for children under two years old, one hour per day of co-viewing with a parent or sibling for children aged two to five, and generally no more than two hours per day for children aged five to 17, except for homework.

It’s essential for parents to be aware of the potential negative effects of excessive screen time on their children’s well-being and to find a balance that allows for healthy development and real-world interactions.

Dr. Yousuf’s guidelines for children:

Under two years old: Zero screen time, except for video chatting with family or friends

Two – five years old: One hour per day co-viewing with a parent or sibling

Five – 17 years old: Generally no more than two hours per day, except for homework

How much screen time do you allow your child? Have you noticed a difference in them? Do you have a story to share? Email eve.wagstaff@reachplc.com