Screen time for children: How much is too much?

It is well documented that excessive screen time can be harmful on young minds. Studies have shown that too much screen time can decrease cognitive function and attention spans as well as negatively impact energy levels and mental clarity.

But in today's interconnected world, cutting down on screen time is easier said that done, and it's difficult to gauge – how much screen time is too much for children?

"Screen addiction adds to the already existing mental health challenges that children face," says Dr Brendan Jeremy Gomez, a consulting psychologist.

"A study in Singapore showed that teenagers who received fewer 'likes' (on their social media posts) reported more negative emotions and thoughts about themselves," he added.

But it's not just the amount of time children spend on screens that worries him. The content they are exposed to is concerning, he said.

Recognising the potential dangers of excessive screen time, popular video-sharing apps such as TikTok recently introduced a 60-minute daily screen time limit for users under 18.

Facebook has also introduced resources and warnings about suicide posts. "These are steps in the right direction, but more needs to be done," said Dr Brendan.

Limiting screen time also helps parents keep a closer eye on what their children are experiencing on social media and the internet. - Astro AWANI

"This includes the ability to access pornography, violent behaviour and addictive games, and to protect them from child predators," he says.

There are already programmes that can help minimise the impact of negative screen time, such as Qustodio, Net Nanny, Kaspersky Safe Kids, Norton Family, KidLogger and Spyrix.

However, Dr Brendan said that policies and safeguards are useless if they aren't implemented by the end user. "That means every parent and carer needs to get involved, including nannies, maids and grandparents," he said.

So, what can parents and carers do to help? Dr Brendan suggests two areas of focus.

Set a good example, as your child is watching you for cues on when it's OK to use screens and how to use them. - Astro AWANI

Parents, teachers and nurseries should build off-screen activities into children's daily routines, including outdoor play, socialising, constructive recreation and time for themselves.

Dr Brendan also believes that parents need to help children learn how to make healthy choices when using digital technology.

You'll likely need to continue to guide, manage and monitor your child's use of screens and media as he or she grows. - Astro AWANI

Drawing on his own experience, Dr Brendan said he gives his daughter Chris an extra five to ten minutes after she's reached the screen time limit to turn off the device. “By giving her a choice, Chris learns how to regulate her behaviour and understand the concept of time,” he said.

Dr Brendan also highlighted the impact of screen time before going to sleep. Limiting screen time at bedtime can help us get into a better state for sleep and improve the quality of our rest.

While screens are here to stay, the right safeguards can help children become balanced and healthy individuals in the digital age.

"It takes a village to raise a child in this digital age, so we better get it right," he said.