Due to the prolonged lockdown situation all over the world, screen time has also increased. Be it for personal reasons or for work, avoiding the screen has definitely gotten beyond the control of many. Basically, this comes as a result of the pandemic confining us to our homes, leaving us with no other option to see our loved ones other than via video call or other methods involving screen-time.
It's not just the adults for whom screen-time has increased more than ever, but children as well. Even before COVID-19, since we are living in the age of technological advancements, we know how children are choosing online games and entertainment over playing outside. While that is certainly not a bad activity, the spike has gone very high from 2020 till 2020, with a 500% increase online each day. In some cases, children don't have. choice. For instance, educational institutes began taking online classes and homework assignments online, which makes a lot of the screen time unavoidable.
Another important aspect to consider is that the Internet is full of content that may be inappropriate for kids. This is exactly why many websites and apps offer parental control features. It is important to look after what children are watching, listening or reading on the Internet. In fact, there are many inappropriate games as well that contain violence or other irrelevant content.
Definitely, children of all ages are at a higher risk of the side-effects of excessive screen time. More than adults ever will be. Development is vital in young ages, and an increase in screen-time can only hinder mental growth processes in kids. Other than lack of mental and emotional development, too much screen time means less time for self-care. This can eventually lead to loneliness and gradual depression. The infographic below shows the impact of social distancing on screen-time and what can be done about it.
Infographic by: UBreakIfix
