If there is one factor that is unique to our children’s generation that we as adults did not have to consider as much, it would be the impact of electronics. The prevalence of electronics right now has far surprised any previous generation and has been exacerbated even further over the past couple of years through the new digital age that the COVID-19 pandemic has ushered in. Still, there is considerable research that shows that too much time using electronics can have a negative impact on children in a variety of ways.
One of the most significant problems that electronics can pose on your child is how it impacts their sleep. Sleep is incredibly important to all of us, especially children. Electronics impact sleep by the blue light that is emitted, which tends to fight against the natural hormone melatonin. When the body is limited in its melatonin production, the child’s sleep schedule can be drastically disrupted as well.
The sleep problems that are caused by too much electronic usage can also impact other areas of your child’s life, such as mood and behavior. These may be sensitive problems with your child anyway, and too much electronic time can exacerbate them even further through lack of sleep. In addition, too much screen time can result in less physical activity and time outdoors, which are also highly important to a child’s life.
There is a good chance that your child also enjoys electronics, which can present problems considering it is not particularly healthy for them. It is okay for your child to play video games or watch TV on occasion, but the key is being smart about how it is done. Make sure to limit electronics entirely before bedtime, and in general limit its time of usage during the day, making sure your child is getting plenty of physical activity.
