Our group has decided to direct our focus towards “The impact that screen time has on child development”. This topic will explore how an excess of screen time can affect all aspects of a child’s upbringing including physical health, mental health and social skills. Fostering a deeper understanding of the impact that excessive screen time has on children can create a potential for healthier lifestyles and support a better development for children.
Our topic directly correlates to active health and holds influence on various factors of well being. Firstly, the majority of children in today’s culture breach far beyond the recommended amount of screen time. Common guidelines published recommend “For children under two years old screen time is not recommended. Children two to five years old limit recreational screen time to less than one hour a day. Children older than five limit recreational screen time to less than two hours a day” (Health, 2021). In today’s modern world, many children prefer spending time with their friends online playing a game, rather than traditional ways such as playing sports or going to a park. This is becoming a serious problem because it is limiting movement and real world socialization. Children are also now missing out on crucial face-to-face interactions that allow them to foster empathy, communication skills and build personal relationships. Those factors are creating a negative impact on the three core aspects of physical literacy: motivation, confidence and physical competence. With a major decline in physical activity, children see a drop in physical competence which further discourages participation. In terms of mental health, excessive screen time can “increase stress and anxiety, cause behavioral dysregulation, decrease social abilities, and impact sleep”. (Nexus, 2024)
This topic is relevant to our group because screen time is becoming more unavoidable by the day, especially for the new generation growing up in a digital world. With the majority of the class aspiring to become future educators, understanding the impact of excessive screen time on children is crucial. Children spend more time with teachers in the classroom than they do with their family, leading to an opportunity to help shape the next generation. To engage our peers, we will conduct an anonymous survey in which students categorize their screen time into incremental groups. We will then compare these results with the recommended screen time guidelines potentially creating some revelations and shock within the classroom. These activities that create audience interaction will aid in maintaining their attention during the seminar which will hopefully create a lasting impression.
Health, F. (2021, March 20). Screen Time for Children. Fraser Health. https://www.fraserhealth.ca/health-topics-a-to-z/children-and-youth/physical-activity-for-children/screen-time-for-children
Nexus, H. (2024, November 13). Excessive Screen Time & Mental Health Issues. Nexus Health Systems. https://nexushealthsystems.com/excessive-screen-time-mental-health-issues/