Health and Science

Due to smartphones being in the hands of children, the great harm in children has been revealed.

A study reported this

Young children who spend too much time in front of smartphones or other screens experience poor sleep quality. 

This was revealed in a medical study in China. 

A study by Shanghai Normal University found that spending too much time in front of screens affects children's sleep, causing them to have difficulty concentrating while also becoming more irritable and experiencing other behavioral problems. It happens. 

In this study, 571 mothers of children aged 3 to 6 years were surveyed. 

Mothers were asked how much time their children spent in front of screens (television, smartphones, computers or other devices) per day in the past week. 

The mothers were then asked about the children's behavioral problems such as irritability, preferring to spend time alone or away from the children, and others. 

Finally, details about the quality and duration of children's sleep were obtained from them. 

Research has found a link between sleep quality and other behavioral problems in children, including anger. 

The results indicated that excessive use of smartphones is harmful for children. 

Spending too much time in front of screens overstimulates young children's brains, reducing the quality and duration of sleep, researchers said. 

He further said that blue light emitted from smartphones or other screens and other causes have negative effects on sleep. 

He said that excessive use of smartphones increases the state of excitement due to which sleep does not occur when lying down. 

According to the researchers, the findings suggest that both excessive screen time and sleep problems increase the risk of anxiety, depression and behavioral problems. 

"Understanding the effects of the screens will help us design treatments and other strategies," he said. 

Screen use in young children should be controlled to help prevent behavioral problems and poor sleep, he said. 

The researchers acknowledged that the study was limited in some respects because it relied on data provided by mothers. 

It was for this reason that he said more research was needed to confirm the findings. 

Smartphone use has both positive and negative effects on children. A careful study of various aspects is necessary to understand their impact. 

Positive effects

1. Teaching and learning support

Educational apps and online videos enhance children's learning ability. 

Smartphones provide opportunities for children to learn new topics.

2. Synchronization with technology

Children become proficient in the use of technology. Which is an essential component for the present era. 

3. Development of creativity

Increased interest in creative pursuits such as graphic design, video editing, and music making. 

Adverse effects

1. Effects on physical health

Excessive use of screens can cause eye strain, headaches and sleep problems. 

Lack of physical activity can lead to obesity and other health problems. 

2. Effects on mental health

Excessive use of social media, for example, can lead to depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. 

Viewing inappropriate content can have a negative impact on children's mental development. 

3. Decreased academic performance

Due to being engaged in sports and social media, the focus on studies decreases. 

4. Effects on social relations

Excessive smartphone use can affect social relationships in real life. 

Children engage in online activities instead of spending time with real friends. 

Solutions and suggestions

1. Set a time limit

Limit children's smartphone usage time. For example, let it be used for one to two hours daily. 

2. Encouraging educational content

Encourage children to use educational and informative apps or videos. 

3. Parental supervision

Parents should monitor children's use of smart phones so that children stay away from inappropriate content. 

4. Promote physical activity

Involve children in sports and other physical activities. 

5. Positive environment

Spend quality time with children and teach them the importance of real-life relationships. 

Appropriate and balanced use of smart phones can have a positive impact on children's lives. But if it is used unnecessarily and irresponsibly, it can be very harmful. Parents and teachers should guide children and ensure healthy use of technology in their lives. 

What steps can be taken to protect children from the dangers of smartphones?  

1. Teach balanced use of technology

Set time limits for children to use smartphones. For example 1-2 hours daily. 

Teach them to use smartphones only for educational and positive activities. 

2. Parental control and supervision

Install parental control apps on smartphones so that children can only access positive and safe content. 

Supervise children when they use the Internet. Block dangerous websites or content. 

3. Promote educational content

Encourage kids to use educational apps, online courses, and positive videos to get them interested in using these apps. 

Choose games for play and fun that can also help with mental development. 

4. Limited use of social media

Prevent children from creating social media accounts until they reach adulthood. 

If children have social media accounts, monitor their friends and activities. 

5. Make smartphone usage rules so that you don't face any problems later. 

Avoid using the phone, especially during meals, before going to bed or while spending time with family. 

Provide children with full training awareness not to share their personal information, photos and other data. 

6. Educate children about the dangers

Educate them about the dangers of cyberbullying, online fraud, and misinformation. 

Build complete trust in children so that if there is a problem, they will tell their parents immediately. 

7. Provide interactive activities and hobbies

Engage children in physical play, reading books, and creative activities to reduce their need for smartphones. 

Most importantly, make them prioritize spending time with family. 

8. Set your own example

Parents themselves should use smartphones responsibly so that children adopt a positive attitude. 

9. Get professional help

If the child is more involved in the use of smartphone or if his life is getting affected, then it is necessary to consult psychologists. 

These measures will help protect children from the dangers of smartphones and use them for educational purposes.

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