Screens are everywhere—at work, at home, and even in our pockets. While technology has made life easier and more connected, it’s easy to lose track of just how much time we spend staring at digital devices each day. But what does all this screen time mean for our health, especially for growing children?
As concerns rise about its impact on learning, behaviour, and even physical well-being, it’s time to take a closer look at the real effects of our digital habits—and how we can reclaim a healthier balance for ourselves and our families.
The World Health Organization (WHO) provides clear guidelines for healthy screen use:
Spending too much time on screens can have several negative effects, especially on children. Kids who sit for long periods instead of playing outside are at risk for obesity, which can lead to early diabetes, high blood pressure, heart problems, and joint pain. Excessive screen time can also cause headaches, neck and back pain, and eye strain.
There are emotional and social consequences as well. Children may develop shorter attention spans, struggle to concentrate, perform poorly at school, and have less interaction with family and friends. Too much screen time can also increase anxiety and depression. Basic life skills, like tying shoes, swimming, or riding a bike, may be delayed in children who spend too much time on devices.
For very young children, especially those under 2 years, real-life interaction is crucial for learning. Too much screen time can slow down their speech and language development, as they vocalise less and have fewer opportunities to learn from real-world experiences. Sleep can also be affected, leading to behavioural problems at home and school, including tantrums and, in older kids, more aggressive behaviour.
Social media brings its set of challenges for teenagers. While it allows them to stay connected, it can also cause issues like dependence on online validation, exposure to cyberbullying, and loss of privacy.
Managing screen time starts with encouraging children to be physically active and to spend more time outdoors. Reading physical books, joining libraries, and engaging in hobbies with family and friends can help reduce reliance on screens.
It’s important not to use screens during meals, especially for young children. Instead, use this time to talk, share stories, or enjoy picture books together. Parents should set a good example by limiting their own screen time and creating tech-free zones at home, such as in bedrooms and during family meals.
Supervision is key—keep an eye on your child during screen time and use parental controls to block inappropriate content. Teach teenagers about safe online behaviour and remind them not to share anything online they wouldn’t want everyone to see. Monitor their social media activity, no matter how mature they seem.
While screens are a big part of modern life, it’s important to strike a healthy balance. In a world where screens are always within reach, finding the right balance isn’t just about limiting device time—it’s about making room for real-life moments, healthy habits, and genuine connections. By setting boundaries and leading by example, families can harness the positive power of technology without letting it take over daily life. Remember, the best memories are made offline. A little less screen—and a little more play, laughter, and conversation—can go a long way in building brighter, healthier physical & mental health for everyone.
Dr Fathima Hyder Senior Consultant, Paediatrics Kauvery Hospital – Radial Road
Kauvery Hospital is globally known for its multidisciplinary services at all its Centers of Excellence, and for its comprehensive, Avant-Grade technology, especially in diagnostics and remedial care in heart diseases, transplantation, vascular and neurosciences medicine. Located in the heart of Trichy (Tennur, Royal Road and Alexandria Road (Cantonment), Chennai (Alwarpet, Radial Road & Vadapalani), Hosur, Salem, Tirunelveli and Bengaluru, the hospital also renders adult and paediatric trauma care.
Chennai Alwarpet – 044 4000 6000 • Chennai Radial Road – 044 6111 6111 • Chennai Vadapalani – 044 4000 6000 • Trichy – Cantonment – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Heartcity – 0431 4077777 • Trichy – Tennur – 0431 4022555 • Maa Kauvery Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Kauvery Cancer Institute, Trichy – 0431 4077777 • Hosur – 04344 272727 • Salem – 0427 2677777 • Tirunelveli – 0462 4006000 • Bengaluru – 080 6801 68011
