Did you know some children are starting school unable to sit straight or hold a pencil? Experts say too much screen time is to blame!
Teachers report that many kids now enter classrooms without basic skills like moving confidently, making friends, or focusing on tasks. Instead, they feel anxious, miss instructions, or act out. While the pandemic made things worse by limiting outdoor play, the real problem started earlier—when smartphones became common. Parents busy with work or chores often hand kids devices to keep them quiet. But excessive screen time reduces physical activity and face-to-face interactions, which are crucial for growing muscles, coordination, and social skills.
Think of it like wearing a cast for a year—your muscles weaken. Similarly, kids glued to screens miss chances to run, climb, or balance. This affects their brain-body connections needed for writing or playing. Studies also show screen time cuts down parent-child conversations, slowing speech and social growth. Sadly, kids from poorer families or marginalized groups face higher screen use due to unsafe play areas or fewer resources.
The good news? Parents can help! Use screens with kids—talk about what they watch, connect it to real life, and balance it with outdoor play. Schools and governments must also create safe play spaces and support families. Let’s help kids grow strong, happy, and ready to learn!
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