Children grow up in an environment surrounded by a variety of electronic devices that are rapidly evolving and easily accessible. While this progress may be beneficial for future generations, it raises some concerns. We are raising a generation of children who are heavily dependent on these devices, as computers and mobile phones have become more of a necessity than a luxury. However, this does not mean that they are immune to the negative effects of these devices, or that they are safe for their psychological and social health. Therefore, it is necessary to work to reduce their use of these devices as much as possible, but in a systematic way, as we will explain in this article via the Dalili Medical website.

**Why Blue Light May Be Harmful to You**

 

The LED screens used in computers and mobile devices emit a wide spectrum of visible light. Although most of these rays are harmless, some of them include a type of high-energy visible light known as "blue light".

Blue light has shorter wavelengths and higher energy compared to other types of visible light. Laboratory research has shown that some ranges of blue light may be harmful to the light-sensitive retina in the long term.

Furthermore, blue light plays a vital role in regulating the body’s circadian rhythm, the internal clock that regulates periods of wakefulness and sleepiness over a 24-hour period, also known as the sleep/wake cycle.

Excessive exposure to blue light at inappropriate times can disrupt this natural cycle, which can have serious health consequences.

How does the Internet benefit children?

 

**Education and learning:**

Children use the Internet to search for information, complete schoolwork, and participate in online lessons and educational applications.

**Entertainment:**

Video games, watching videos on platforms such as YouTube, and listening to music are common recreational activities that children engage in online.

**Social communication:**

Utilizing social media platforms, messaging applications, and video calls to communicate with friends and family.

**Skill development:**

Acquiring new skills such as programming, digital drawing, or any other digital hobbies online.

**Reading and writing:**

Reading e-books and stories, and participating in blogs or forums.

How can you protect your child from the dangers of the Internet?

 

**Awareness and education:**

Discuss with your child the potential risks he may face on the Internet and ways to avoid them. You should also teach him the importance of preserving his personal information and not sharing it with strangers.

**Using parental control programs:**

Install and use parental control programs to monitor your child's activity on the Internet, in addition to blocking inappropriate content.

**Set rules for using the Internet:**

Set specific times for using the Internet and set clear rules about the sites and applications that are allowed.

Constant monitoring:

Monitor your child's activity regularly and be aware of the sites he browses and the people he communicates with.

Provide a safe environment:

Make sure that the devices the child uses have updated protection programs to combat viruses and malware.

**Symptoms of electronic device addiction**

An important question may come to mind: How can we identify our children's addiction to electronic devices at a time when aspects of their lives, such as education, skill development, and communication with others, have become largely dependent on technology?

In fact, there are several symptoms that indicate children's addiction to devices, the most prominent of which are:

- Headaches and neck and shoulder pain.

- Poor concentration and feeling lazy and lethargic.

- Vision problems.

- Aggressive and unacceptable behaviors.

- Irritability and violence in behavior.

- Lack or absence of participation in sports and social activities.

- Tendency to isolation and loss of sense of time and others.

- A constant feeling of anxiety and tension.

- Constant waiting to follow the programs and social networking sites in which they participate.

**Time allowed for children in front of screens (TV or electronic devices)**

We may sometimes face the need to have screens in front of our children, but that does not mean that we leave time open without limits. The negative effects caused by these devices are often greater than the inconvenience they may cause us. So, here are some guidelines in case of necessity:

- **Infants up to 18 months**: Screen use is strictly prohibited.

- **Children from 18 to 24 months**: Some screen time with a parent is allowed.

- **Preschool**: Time should not exceed one hour per day, with adults present to help them understand the content.

- **Children from 5 to 18 years**: Parents should set a specific time not exceeding two hours per day, making sure that this does not affect their adequate sleep and physical activity.

**The importance of using the Internet for children**

 

**A rich source of information:**

The Internet provides children with the opportunity to access a huge amount of information and educational resources, which contributes to enhancing their knowledge and broadening their horizons in various fields.

**Developing research skills:**

Online research helps children improve their research and analysis skills, as they learn how to find reliable information and use it effectively in their studies and projects.

**E-learning:**

Many educational platforms and applications provide interactive content for children, making the learning experience more fun and effective. Children can participate in online courses, attend live lessons, and use digital educational tools.

**Developing technical skills:**

Using the Internet contributes to enhancing children's technical skills, such as dealing with computers, learning basic programming, and using softwareDiverse. These skills have become essential in the age of digital technology.

**Enhancing social communication:**

The Internet provides effective means of communication for children to connect with their friends and family members, especially in situations where face-to-face meetings are difficult. Children can communicate via email, social media, and video calls.

**Creativity and self-expression:**

The Internet provides children with multiple platforms to express their creativity and ideas, such as blogs, video platforms, and creative forums. Children can also share their stories, drawings, and artwork with a wide audience.

**Developing language skills:**

Many websites and applications offer content in a variety of languages, which helps children learn new languages ​​or enhance their skills in their native language through reading, watching, and listening to educational content.

**Accessing educational games:**

There is a wide range of educational games that help children understand basic concepts in the fields of science, mathematics, languages, and history in a fun and interactive way, which increases their enthusiasm for learning.

**Global Issues Awareness:**

The Internet can be an effective tool to raise children’s awareness of global issues, such as the environment, human rights, and public health, helping them become more aware and responsible citizens.

Self-directed and independent learning:

The Internet contributes to promoting self-directed and independent learning, as it allows children to explore topics that interest them individually, which enhances their passion for learning and their desire to gain knowledge.

**How ​​to get the most out of the Internet for children by applying usage tips**

1. **Usage guidance**: Providing clear instructions to children on how to use the Internet in a safe and effective manner.

2. **Choosing appropriate sites**: Directing children towards educational and interactive sites that suit their ages and interests.

3. **Monitoring and monitoring**: Monitoring children’s activities on the Internet to ensure they are using appropriate content and protecting them from risks.

4. **Time limits**: Setting time limits for Internet use to ensure a balance between digital activities and physical and social activities.

5. **Encourage open dialogue**: Talk to children about their online experiences and the challenges they face, to ensure a safe and supportive learning environment.

Ways to mitigate the risks associated with children's Internet use by following these tips:

 

1. **Set clear rules**: Set specific times for using the Internet and monitor them.

2. **Education and awareness**: Teach children how to use the Internet safely and understand the potential risks.

3. **Use parental control programs**: Monitor children's activity on the Internet and protect them from inappropriate content.

4. **Encourage alternative activities**: Promote engagement in physical, social and artistic activities.

5. **Open communication**: Encourage children to discuss anything that concerns them while using the Internet.

Practical steps to control children's time using electronic devices

1- Make a plan for using screens: Hold a family meeting and discuss with your children the dangers of using screens excessively for them and for you as parents, and involve them in setting specific controls and rules for their use for all family members.

2- Set a schedule for screen use according to age:

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends specific time periods such as:

Children under two years: No screens.

Children from 2 to 12 years: One hour per day.

Over 12 years (teens and adults): Two hours per day.

3- Be realistic: If your children spend an excessive amount of time on screens, start by setting more achievable goals, instead of jumping directly to an hour or two, start by reducing the current time by half and then gradually reduce.

4- Educate them about using the Internet safely: Be a friend to them so they can tell you what is happening with them, and gently warn them about the dangers of using the Internet, and set limits with them on the content they are exposed to and the people they communicate with online.

5- Set specific times and places free of screens: such as dinner time, which should be an opportunity to connect with family and share news. Also, playtime and going out of the house should be dedicated to learning and having fun, not to using screens. You can also designate specific places, such as their own rooms, where screens are not recommended, while they can use them in the living room next to you.

6- Set rules for screen use: For example, children should not use screens before finishing their homework and studying. You can also designate a day of the week (such as a holiday) to be screen-free for everyone, where you can spend quality time together as a family.

7- Transform your favorite cartoon characters into reality: If your children love certain characters and watch their movies frequently, try to provide them with clothes for those characters to act out scenes from. You can also organize special games and activities related to those characters, instead of spending a long time watching them on screens.

8- Create new activities that attract children away from screens: Try to involve your children in creating games and activities inside the house that help them learn and discover. These activities have greater health benefits for their bodies and minds than sitting in front of screens.

9- Take them outside: Children need to go out to enjoy the sunshine and fresh air, play outside, and visit family and friends. These activities enhance their learning and growth in healthy ways and help them stay away from screens for a while.

10- Keep screens out of sight, they are very attention-grabbing: During play or study times, try to put electronic devices completely out of their sight, toIt can distract them and greatly affect their concentration.

11- Use screens positively: There are many fun educational contents that children can benefit from, in addition to the possibility of communicating with family members via video calls with grandparents and relatives, which helps them develop useful communication skills.

12- Set a basic rule of not using screens an hour before bed: because the light and stimulation from screens can lead to difficulty sleeping in children.

**The impact of smart devices on children**

 

**Obesity:** Indulging in activities that require sitting for long periods, such as video games or watching TV, is one of the factors that increase the risk of obesity. The child spends long hours in front of these devices without feeling the time, which makes him eat snacks and sweets in large quantities when he feels hungry, which ultimately leads to weight gain.

**Increased risk of heart disease:** There is a close relationship between obesity and an increased risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, and high blood cholesterol levels.

**Negative effects on the brain:** Electronic devices cause many damages to the brain, as a result of the electromagnetic radiation they emit, which the body absorbs. This can lead to chronic headaches, tension, increased emotions, and feelings of stress and frustration.

**Sleep problems:** Sleep problems are considered one of the negative effects of using electronic devices on children, as the light emitted from these devices interferes with the brain's sleep cycle, which may prevent them from getting a good night's sleep.

**Negative behaviors:**

Lying is one of the most prominent negative behaviors that may result from using electronic devices, as the child may be forced to lie to stay in front of the screen for long periods. He may pretend to be asleep or that he did not spend a long time playing, or even hide the device under the bed to use it while sleeping, which negatively affects his health.

**Chronic neck and back pain:**

Sitting for long periods in front of electronic devices requires adopting unhealthy positions, which leads to curvature of the back and neck. Over time, these problems can turn into chronic pain, as the child suffers from neck and back pain, in addition to lower back pain.

**Poor eyesight:**

Poor eyesight and dry eyes are other health problems resulting from excessive use of electronic devices. Constant staring at screens, especially when using small devices that require the face to be brought close to them, can exacerbate this problem.

**Depression and anxiety:**

Depression and anxiety are negative effects of using electronic devices on mental health. The more time a child spends in front of screens, the more likely it is to negatively affect their mental state.

**Educational problems:** School-age children who spend long periods in front of electronic devices face greater educational challenges than their peers, due to lack of sleep, which negatively affects their academic achievement. They also have a lower tendency to study and are often distracted while receiving lessons.

**Tendency to violence:** Violence is one of the most prominent negative results of video game addiction, as exposure to violent scenes or playing games based on violence can reduce children's sensitivity to these scenes. Ultimately, children may resort to violence as a means of solving problems, and they may imitate what they see, which makes them more prone to violence and consider harm as a way of dealing with others.

**Exposure to inappropriate content:**

The Internet contains a huge amount of inappropriate content for children, such as scenes of violence, profanity, and sexual content. Therefore, children can easily access this material unintentionally, which may negatively affect their mental and psychological development.

**Internet addiction:**

Spending a long time on the Internet can lead to addiction, which makes children move away from social, family, and physical activities necessary for their healthy growth.

**Cyberbullying:**

Children can be exposed to cyberbullying by their peers or even by strangers. This type of bullying can greatly affect their self-confidence and mental health.

**Impact on Academic Performance:**

Addiction to games or social media can distract children from their studies, negatively affecting their academic performance.

**Loss of Privacy:**

Children may share sensitive personal information without realizing it, exposing them to the risks of privacy breaches and cyber fraud.

**Impact on Social Skills:**

Over-reliance on digital communication can hinder the development of social skills in children, such as direct interaction and building healthy relationships with others.

**Exposure to Cyber ​​Fraud Risks:**

Children may be vulnerable to cyber fraud or hacking due to their lack of awareness of security risks and ways to protect their personal data.

Decreased Physical Activity:

Spending long periods of time online reduces the time allocated to physical activity, which can lead to long-term health problems, such as obesity and decreased fitness.

Alternatives to Spending Your Child’s Free Time

You can encourage your child to engage in a range of hobbies such as drawing, coloring, and playing with sand. Here are some helpful ideas:

- Solving small puzzles, simple combinations, and blocks.

- Learn colors, numbers, animals, etc.

- Play sports and acquire new skills.

- Visit the library and read stories appropriate to their age.

- Encourage them to write short stories.

- Spend time learning the language of my grandfather

**Eye Protection When Using Electronic Devices**

If our children's circumstances require them to spend a long time in front of screens, whether due to distance learning, completing school assignments electronically, or participating in electronic programs, it is imperative that we pay special attention to their eye health due to the potential negative effects of screens. We can take some steps to protect their eyes, including:

1. **Take regular breaks**: Time should be allocated for rest to reduce continuous exposure to screens.

2. **Follow the 20-20-20 rule**: This rule states that after every twenty minutes of looking at a screen, you should look at something twenty feet away for twenty seconds.

3. **Reduce the use of phones before bed**: It is preferable to stay away from smartphones two to three hours before bed.

4. **Use moisturizing drops**: It is recommended to use moisturizing eye drops when feeling dry.

5. **Keep the screen clean**: The screen should be cleaned and its brightness reduced to avoid eye strain.

6. **Frequent blinking**: It helps to moisturize the eye, and the room lighting should be adjusted and avoid bright lighting and direct glare.

7. **Avoid bending the neck**: The screen should be placed at eye level, at a distance equal to the length of the arm, to avoid any strain on the neck and eyes.

**Applications to help you overcome smartphone addiction**

 

1. **ClearLock**: This application blocks useless applications that lead to distraction.

 

2. **OFFTIME**: This application aims to encourage you to reduce the use of applications by tracking your usage and sending you alerts.

3. **Flipd**: It works to hide your games and social media applications while you are performing important tasks on your phone, which helps you focus without being distracted by other applications, as it acts as a kind of censor.

4. **AppDetox**: This application allows you to set rules for using applications, including specifying the time period and the number of times different applications are opened.

5. **StayFree**: This app features a log called “Addiction Log,” which reminds you how many times you’ve unlocked your phone and your daily usage.

6. **Forest**: This is a fun app that encourages you to challenge yourself by motivating you to grow your own trees and farm whenever you stay away from distracting apps.

7. **Moment**: This app tracks your phone usage and lets you set daily limits, blocking you if you exceed the specified time.