Around a year ago, the French president requested guidelines for children’s screen use from scientists and experts as recent research showed that excessive screen time can impair cognitive and emotional development, verbal expression, communication, and attention span. A 142-page report was compiled by experts in child psychiatry and neurology after a three-month study, recommending restrictions on screen use for children.
The report suggested that children under 11 should avoid cell phones, those between 11 and 13 should not have internet access on their phones, and access to social media should be limited until the age of 18. The report also advised limiting screen exposure in maternity wards to foster bonding between parents and infants, as well as restricting screen time for nannies caring for babies.
For children up to the age of six, the report recommended limited screen time with educational content only when supervised by an adult. Screens were advised to be completely banned in kindergartens and individual digital devices in primary schools unless necessary due to a specific disability. The experts highlighted negative effects of screens on intelligence, cognitive functions, concentration, vision, and metabolism in children.
Studies have shown that excessive screen time can lead to sensory overstimulation, addiction, exposure to inappropriate content, decreased motivation for age-appropriate activities, restlessness, and difficulty in social interactions. Child psychologists emphasize the negative impact of screens on sleep, weight, relationships, communication skills, and attention span in children and youth.
Recommendations include avoiding screen exposure for children under six, limiting daily screen time to an hour and a half for children aged six to twelve, and establishing agreements among parents to enforce these guidelines. It is crucial to prioritize the well-being and development of children by restricting screen time and promoting healthy activities and interactions.