Issue 2
Reflect
AMJ 2017
Media
Screen-time and Kids
The Straits Times recently reported an
extensive study in Singapore, which
revealed that an average 12 year old in
Singapore spends 61/2 hours on screens
per day. Similar stats emerge from the
US and UK. Children go online to use
search engines, listen to music, watch
videos and play video games, the study
found.
The repercussions of too much screen-
time on health and emotional well being
of kids and adults is known; lack of focus,
impact on social skills, problems reading
emotions, less time spent outdoors,
virtually distorted reality and above all,
addiction. Children are exposed to
online dangers, which include cyber
bullying, online grooming, inappropriate
content and fake news.
Parents need to educate their children on
responsible usage of devices and set
reasonable limits on their screen time, so
they have time for other activities.
Technology Use Guidelines for children and youth
Developed by Cris Rowan paediatric occupational therapist and author of
Virtual Child, Dr. Andrew Doan neuroscientist and author of Hooked on Games
and Dr. Hilarie Cash, Director of reSTART Internet Addiction Recovery Program
and author of Video Games and Your Kids, with contribution from the American
Academy of Pediatrics and the Canadian Paediatric Society.
Source: zoneinworkshops.com
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