screen limits — Children in Cyprus exceed safe screen limits, according to a recent survey by the children’s health observatory, Children First. The findings indicate that many children aged six and seven are spending significantly more time on screens than the World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends.
Screen limits: Screen Time Recommendations Ignored
The WHO advises that children aged five to 13 should limit their screen time to no more than two hours per day. However, the survey revealed that the median time spent on screens for entertainment purposes is currently 1.5 hours daily on both weekdays and weekends. Additionally, gaming adds another layer of screen exposure, averaging 45 minutes on weekdays and extending to 1.5 hours during weekends.
Risks of Excessive Screen Use
The observatory expressed concerns regarding the implications of prolonged and unmonitored screen use. They warned that excessive screen time can lead to digital addiction, adversely affecting both psychosocial and physical health. Evidence from the European Family study, which included Cypriot children, suggested that exceeding two hours of combined internet and multimedia use daily correlates with a decline in mental well-being, decreased self-esteem, and strained family dynamics. This behaviour also encourages sedentary lifestyles, which can contribute to overweight and obesity issues.
Voices from the Observatory
“The systematic and increased exposure of children to screens has serious negative implications,” stated the observatory. Established in 2022, Children First is coordinated by the Cyprus University of Technology in partnership with the University of Cyprus, monitoring health and environmental indicators for children across 22 schools in Cyprus. They communicate individual results securely to parents while sharing aggregated data with authorities and the scientific community.
The Role of Parental Influence
Research conducted by the observatory also highlights the significant role that parental behaviour plays in shaping children’s screen habits. Studies indicate that children are likely to imitate parents who spend excessive time on their devices. Furthermore, high parental screen use during family routines, such as mealtimes, has been shown to reduce family interaction and responsiveness.
Health Risks for Adults
It’s not just children who face risks; adults are also affected by prolonged sedentary screen use. Experts warn that excessive screen time can lead to impaired blood sugar regulation, diminished cognitive function, and eye strain. The health consequences of screens extend beyond just children, underscoring the need for balanced use across all age groups.
Strategies for Healthy Screen Habits
The observatory recommends several strategies to mitigate the potential harms of excessive screen time. Simple measures such as taking regular breaks, engaging in light exercise every 30 minutes, and replacing passive scrolling with mentally stimulating activities can significantly improve both physical and mental health. They advocate for institutional and parental strategies to cultivate balanced screen habits, ensuring children develop healthy routines while avoiding the pitfalls of digital overexposure.
