Supplemental Assignment #2

Children under the age of three should not be allowed any screen time whatsoever.

Technology in this age is booming and it does not look like it is slowing down anytime soon. With these rapid technological advances, there are both pros and cons that are associated with them. Even though technology helps to improve our everyday lives, the misuse of it can prove to have harmful effects. Because of physical, social, and health problems, children under the age of three should not be allowed any screen time whatsoever. I will get things kicked off with the physical pitfalls of young children spending too much time behind a screen.

There are a number of different physical disadvantages when children spend too much time with their technology. Eye problems, postural issues, and excessive inactivity are among the largest problems, especially with younger children. Because these children are still developing, the issues at hand are magnified. Too much sedentary activity is one of the most concerning issues. Raisingchildren.net.au states that, “being inactive for long periods using a screen can lead to a less active lifestyle, which can lead to obesity.” According to the State of Obesity, as of 2018, a majority of U.S. states have obesity rates that exceed thirty percent. With alarming statistics as these, taking any kind of precaution would be most wise!

The social side effects of excessive screen time are concerning as well. Language development, social skills, and face-to-face interactions are all hampered with when children spend too much time behind a screen. An inability to hold conversations, maintain appropriate eye-contact, and read body language can all result from too much technology time, according to CNBC. Even though technology and social media can further communicational efforts, real human interaction is waning. Letting kids get out and experience everything the world has to offer is essential!

There is another major health issue that surfaces with the usage of technology. This issue is our subpar sleeping patterns. The light emitted from screens interferes with the sleep cycle in the brain and can lead to insomnia. (Morin, 2018) The Sleep Health Foundation states that the bright light from cell phones, tablets, personal computers, and televisions blocks the release of sleep hormones, particularly, melatonin. Sleep is vital for young children and their overall development. Taking unnecessary screens away from children under the age of three would be extremely advantageous.

Physical disadvantages, social side effects, and inhibited sleep patterns are all reasons why children three years old and younger should not see any screen time. With technology advancing ever so quickly, we must make sure we are paying attention to our children’s technological consumption. Taking advantage of the positives and being mindful of the negatives of this situation is paramount to our children’s overall well-being!