In today's digital age, the use of electronic devices such as televisions, smartphones, tablets, and computers has become a part of everyday life, even for children. Technology offers many benefits, from access to information and entertainment to educational applications that support learning.
However, excessive screen time in children can have various negative impacts, both physical, mental, and social. Therefore, it's important for parents to understand safe limits for children's screen time and how to manage it so that technology continues to provide benefits without disrupting their development.
What Is Screen Time?
Screen time is the time a person spends interacting with electronic screens, such as watching television, playing video games, using social media, or watching videos on digital platforms.
In general, screen time is divided into two types, namely:
- Passive screen time , when children just watch without active interaction, such as watching TV or videos on YouTube.
- Active screen time , which is when children interact with digital content, for example playing educational games or taking online classes.
Although active screen time is considered more beneficial, it is still necessary to manage time so that children do not become too dependent on screens and maintain balance in carrying out daily activities.
Safe Screen Time Limits for Children According to Age
Based on the recommendations of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) , children's screen time limits are adjusted according to age, namely:
- Babies under 18 months : Screen exposure is not recommended, except for video calls with family.
- Age 18–24 months : Screen time may be introduced in a limited manner and must be accompanied by parents.
- Ages 2–5 years : Maximum 1 hour per day with educational and age-appropriate content.
- Ages 6 and up : Screen time is more flexible, but should not exceed 2 hours per day outside of learning activities.
This regulation aims to ensure that children continue to benefit from technology without sacrificing their health and other developmental needs.
The Impact of Excessive Screen Use on Children
Although technology provides many benefits, excessive screen use can cause various health problems, including:
1. Sleep Disorders
Blue light from screens can inhibit the production of the hormone melatonin, which regulates sleep cycles. Children who habitually use gadgets before bedtime tend to have difficulty falling asleep and become easily tired during the day.
2. Risk of Obesity
Children who spend too much time in front of screens tend to move less and consume more unhealthy foods, increasing the risk of being overweight.
3. Social and Emotional Disorders
Too much interaction with screens can hinder children's social skills, such as communicating, understanding emotions, and cooperating with others.
4. Concentration and Behavior Problems
Several studies have shown that excessive screen time can trigger children to become irritable, have difficulty focusing, and be impatient when studying.
5. Eye Health Disorders
Complaints such as tired eyes, headaches, and even visual disturbances can arise due to prolonged exposure to screens.
How to Manage Your Child's Screen Time Wisely
To ensure that children continue to benefit from technology without negative impacts, parents can take the following steps:
- Set a time limit for gadget use every day
- Choose educational and age-appropriate content for your child.
- Accompanying children when using digital devices
- Create screen-free zones , such as during mealtimes or in the bedroom.
- Encourage non-digital activities, such as playing outside, reading books, or pursuing hobbies.
With this approach, children remain active physically, socially, and emotionally.
Screen time for children isn't inherently bad, as long as it's managed appropriately. With clear time limits, quality content selection, and parental guidance, technology can be a tool that supports children's development, not hinders it.
The role of parents is very important in forming healthy digital habits, so that children can grow optimally amidst increasingly rapid technological developments.
The article was written by Dr. Darmady Darmawan, Sp.A (Pediatrician at EMC Pulomas Hospital).