Issue link: https://maltatoday.uberflip.com/i/1507625
5.12.19 12 14.9.2023 Alexiei Dingli Prof Alexiei Dingli is a Professor of AI at the University of Malta and has been conducting research and working in the field of AI for more than two decades, assisting different companies to implement AI solutions. He forms part of the Malta.AI task-force, set up by the Maltese government, aimed at making Malta one of the top AI countries in the world OPINION The hidden costs of screen time D id you know that chil- dren with up to four hours of screen time per day are three times more likely to experience developmental de- lays? In an era where the glow of screens is as ubiquitous as sun- light, this statistic is a wake-up call for parents and educators alike. While technology has undeniably enriched our lives, offering unprecedented educa- tional and entertainment oppor- tunities, its excessive use casts a long shadow over the develop- mental milestones of our young- est generation. Imagine a modern house- hold where children are more familiar with iPads than play- grounds, where social inter- actions often occur behind the veil of social media, and where video games have re- placed traditional outdoor games. Let's be honest and ad- mit that this is not a glimpse into a dystopian future but a dark snapshot of our own dig- ital landscape. Educational apps, social media platforms, and video games are just a few digital arenas where children spend their time. But what does this immersion in the digital world mean for their real-world de- velopment? Recent research is begin- ning to offer some alarming answers. A study from Japan found a direct correlation be- tween screen time and devel- opmental delays in children. The study surveyed over 7,000 children and found that excessive screen time nega- tively impacted various devel- opmental domains, including motor skills, language ability, and social skills. The gravity of these findings cannot be overstated. Children are not just missing out on the phys- ical benefits of play but also losing valuable opportunities for social interaction and lan- guage development. One of the most critical as- pects of childhood develop- ment is interactive learning, which often occurs through direct, face-to-face commu- nication and play. This type of interaction is essential for various developmental mile- stones, including language acquisition, social skills, and emotional intelligence. When children are absorbed in screens, whether it's a tablet, smartphone, or television, they are isolated from this form of interactive learning. They may be passively receiv- ing information, but they are not actively engaged in re- ciprocal communication that fosters healthy development. Moreover, the risks associat- ed with excessive screen time extend beyond developmen- tal delays. The digital realm presents its own social and emotional challenges, such as the phenomenon known as "Facebook depression," where constant exposure to the cu- rated lives of others can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem. Cyberbully- ing is another significant con- cern, as it can happen at any time and place, making it dif- ficult for parents to monitor and intervene. Additionally, the risk of exposure to inap- propriate or harmful content is ever-present in the digital world, adding another layer of complexity to the issue. However, it's crucial to ac- knowledge that technology is not the villain in this nar- rative. Educational apps can be powerful learning tools, and digital platforms can help children stay connected with distant family members. The key is moderation. Just as you wouldn't let your child eat candy all day, allowing unre- stricted screen time is unwise. Technology can have positive or negative effects, but ulti- mately, the outcome depends on how we use it. So, what can parents do to navigate this digital minefield? The first step in this journey is establishing clear and con- sistent screen time bounda- ries. The American Academy of Pediatrics provides a valu- able guideline, recommend- ing no more than one hour of high-quality screen time per day for children between the ages of 2 and 5. For older chil- dren, the focus should be on the quality of the digital con- tent and the context in which it is consumed rather than the quantity alone. Consistency is key; sporadic limitations are less effective and can confuse the child. Once these boundaries are in place, the next step is actively promoting alternative activi- ties that positively contribute to your child's development. Reading, for instance, im- proves vocabulary, enhances comprehension skills, fosters imagination and boosts em- pathy. Outdoor play is equally crucial; it offers physical ex- ercise, which is essential for physical health, and provides opportunities for social inter- action and motor skills devel- opment. Family interactions, such as shared meals or game nights, offer emotional benefits and strengthen the family unit, providing a sense of security and belonging. However, setting rules and encouraging alternative ac- tivities will only be effective if parents serve as positive role models. Children are keen ob- servers and quick to imitate adult behaviour. If they see you glued to your smartphone during family time, they will likely question why similar rules don't apply to them. The adult's relationship with technology sets a precedent for the child's digital habits. Thus, everyone should make a conscious effort to use tech- nology responsibly. For exam- ple, designate tech-free zones in the house or specific times when all family members dis- connect to focus on each oth- er. Moreover, involve your chil- dren in the process of set- ting these boundaries. Make it a family discussion where everyone has a say. This inclu- sion makes children feel val- ued and more likely to adhere to the rules. Additionally, reg- ularly review and adjust these guidelines to accommodate the child's changing needs and challenges as they grow. While technology offers a wealth of opportunities for learning and entertainment, its excessive use can have det- rimental effects on children's development. As parents, educators, and caregivers, it's our responsi- bility to ensure that children grow up in an environment that fosters their holistic de- velopment, both online and offline. So, the next time you hand your child a tablet to keep them occupied, ask yourself: What are the hidden costs of this digital pacifier?