Medics in Sweden advise against allowing children under the age of two to use smartphones, devices, or watch television.
Parents have also been advised by the Swedish Association of Paediatricians that one hour of screen time per day is sufficient for children ages two to five.
The Impact of Screen Time
For a long time, authorities have cautioned against the detrimental effects of screen time on the development of children.
The newly proposed recommendations encompass guidance regarding the parental role in promoting responsible media consumption, with the intention of aiding national policymakers.
The experts argued that educating children about responsible screen time is equally as important as instructing them on safe driving or healthy dietary practices.
Global Perspectives and Research
It follows a similar directive from Danish authorities in September when they issued age-related regulations prohibiting the use of devices by children under the age of two except in “extremely special circumstances,” such as those with cognitive difficulties.
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The medics wrote in the association’s new report, “While digital screens can offer entertainment, information, and social interaction opportunities, the cognitive development of young children is insufficient to fully comprehend the advantages they provide.
On the contrary, research indicates that early exposure to digital displays can be detrimental to the development of children.
They reported that children who frequently use displays on their smartphones, tablets, and computers are more irritable, have poorer concentration, and retain information for only half as long as those who do not.
Additionally, research suggests that there is a correlation between increased screen time and a heightened risk of behavioral issues and childhood melancholy in children.
However, physicians also urged adults and carers to exercise self-control over their screen time.
“In contrast to books, digital media frequently incorporate reinforcement mechanisms that encourage even young children to continue using the screen,” the statement continued.
There is a significant danger that children will use digital media as a babysitter when they are restless or when adults are unavailable.
Rapid cuts and transitions, rich colours, and loud noises in digital media enhance the risk of sudden reward sensitivity.
World Health Organisation advised against children under three using tablets to watch TV or play games while seated.
The organization also advised that children aged three and four should not exceed one hour of daily screen time.
However, at the time, British authorities argued that the guidelines were based on inadequate evidence and failed to acknowledge that not all forms of screen time were detrimental to children’s health.
In addition, the 2019 report of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health stated, “We do not believe the dangers of screen exposure to be exaggerated.”
Furthermore, the literature fails to adequately consider the growing expectation that students complete their schoolwork using electronic devices.
“We observe that there is no evidence associating screen-based homework with greater or lesser health risks or benefits than traditional homework.”
During the Covid-19 pandemic, when lockdowns and school closures compelled children to remain indoors, their screen time skyrocketed.
The NHS and the National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE) in the United Kingdom do not provide comprehensive recommendations regarding screen time for infants and toddlers.
However, experts advise a daily maximum of two hours for all children.
The UK Chief Medical Officer advises ‘precautionary approach’ to screen device use.
