Technology has changed the way children spend their free time. Instead of playing outside or reading books, children are glued to their TV and computer screens.

The increasing use of technology has raised concerns about the effect it has on children’s mental and physical health. In this article, we will discuss the dangerous effects of TV and computers on children, including the potential impact on growth, development, and academic performance.

: 1. Disrupts Sleep Patterns

The blue light from TV and computer screens can interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle.

Research shows that children who spend more time watching TV or using computers have poorer sleep quality, have trouble falling asleep, and wake up more frequently during the night. Disrupted sleep can lead to mood swings, irritability, and difficulty concentrating.

: 2. Affects Vision

Staring at screens for long periods can cause eye strain or fatigue, causing headaches, blurred vision, and discomfort.

Studies show that children who spend more than two hours a day on a computer or TV screen are at risk of developing nearsightedness, also known as myopia.

: 3. Increases the Risk of Obesity

Sitting in front of a screen for hours at a time can lead to a sedentary lifestyle. Insufficient physical activity can cause weight gain and obesity.

Children who spend more time watching TV or using computers are at a higher risk of becoming overweight, as they are less active and tend to snack while using screens.

While TV and computer screens provide entertainment and can be educational, they can also impede a child’s social development.

Children who spend more time in front of screens than engaging in social activities are at risk of developing poor social skills, including difficulty making friends, maintaining relationships, and communication skills. Children who spend too much time on screens may also experience negative impacts on their mental health, such as anxiety and depression.

: 5. Affects Academic Performance

Studies show that children who spend more time using screens have poorer academic performance than those who spend less time on screens.

Students who watch TV or use computers excessively have lower grades, are less attentive in class, and have poor memory recall. It is crucial that children spend time engaging in academic activities, and limit their screen time to ensure they can perform well in school.

: 6. Encourages Risky Behavior

TV and computer screens often depict risky or violent behavior. Children who watch too much TV or play video games with violent themes are more likely to engage in risky behavior and violence.

Children who spend a lot of time on social media platforms may also be at risk of cyberbullying or harassment, leading to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression.

: 7. Can Lead to Addiction

TV and computers can be addictive, causing children to lose track of time and miss out on other essential activities.

Children who spend too much time in front of a screen are at risk of developing screen addiction, leading to anxiety, depression, and lower academic performance.

: 8. Damages the Brain

Studies show that excessive screen time damages the brain’s white matter, affecting cognitive function, and inhibits the formation of social and emotional skills.

Exposure to screens from an early age may also limit the development of the brain’s frontal cortex, hindering the critical thinking and judgment essential for cognitive development.

: 9. Decreases Physical Activity

When children spend more time watching TV or using computers, they engage in less physical activity. This sedentary lifestyle can lead to obesity, heart disease, and other health problems.

It is vital that children engage in healthy physical activities each day, such as playing outside or joining sports teams, to maintain their physical health.

: 10. Decreases Love for Reading

The more time children spend using screens, the less time they have to read books. Studies show that children who spend less time reading have lower reading skills than those who read more frequently.

Reading books helps language development, improves comprehension and critical thinking skills, and fosters a love for learning.