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The digital world is constantly evolving, and children’s screen time habits are undergoing significant changes as well. With the proliferation of technology, children and young people are spending more and more time in front of digital devices every day, which can have concerning consequences. Parents often face the challenge of managing their children’s screen usage, as excessive time spent in the virtual space can lead to numerous problems, including deterioration of physical and mental health. Recognizing this phenomenon, the Bethesda Children’s Hospital has launched new initiatives aimed at helping families and reducing screen time.
Hospital professionals observe that excessive attraction to digital devices is becoming increasingly common among children and teenagers, which can lead to sleep problems, anxiety, and other mental health issues. The goal of Bethesda Children’s Hospital is to provide parents with concrete tools and support, enabling them to make informed decisions regarding their children’s digital habits. To this end, the hospital offers new e-books and online programs that help families find a balance between screen time and real life.
The Effects of Screen Time on Youth
The increase in screen usage among young people raises serious concerns among parents and professionals. An average eight-year-old child can spend up to five hours a day in front of a screen, while for teenagers, this number can reach eight hours. Experts at Bethesda Children’s Hospital emphasize that excessive screen time can lead to various physical and mental problems. These include sleep disorders, learning difficulties, anxiety, and outbursts of anger. The situation becomes particularly severe during the summer break, as children spend more time in front of digital devices, making it even more challenging for parents.
Bethesda Children’s Hospital works closely with other professionals to raise awareness of the problem and assist families in managing digital overload. In its latest campaign, the health institution has developed a ten-point recommendation package that provides practical guidance for parents on reducing screen time. The aim is for families to regain control over their use of digital devices and to find alternatives that support children’s development.
The Relationship Between Emotional State and Screen Usage
The digital world is not only a realm of entertainment but also has significant impacts on mental health. Research indicates that young people prone to anxiety often use social media as an escape, while those who feel better tend to resort to this solution less frequently. Professionals at Bethesda Children’s Hospital emphasize that different age groups respond differently to digital content. Younger individuals are more likely to use visual platforms like TikTok, while older ones focus more on information seeking and maintaining connections.
The correlations between young people’s mental state and screen usage warn that parents should monitor their children’s digital habits. Those young people who struggle to manage their emotions may spend up to twice as much time on passive entertainment platforms compared to their more balanced peers. Therefore, it is essential for parents to actively participate in their children’s digital lives and support them in developing healthy habits.
Parental Support and the Bethesda Program
The Bethesda Children’s Hospital Screen Time Reduction Program is not just a campaign but a long-term commitment to supporting families. The hospital’s director, Dr. György János Velkey, emphasizes that the goal is for parents to develop conscious habits regarding their children’s use of digital devices. As part of the program, Bethesda offers e-books that generate thousands of downloads, containing simple yet effective tips for managing screen time.
It is particularly important for support to be accessible to families with young children, as the first three years are crucial for neurological development. The free e-books available on the hospital’s website help parents establish habits that protect against the excessive effects of screens. According to professional guidelines, screen time is not recommended for children under three years old, making active parental presence essential.
Bethesda aims to help families regain control over the digital world. Online programs are continuously expanding and provide personalized assistance for parents, young children, and teenagers. The hospital believes that it is not too late to make changes, and families can collectively return to an offline life filled with genuine connections. Bethesda Children’s Hospital is committed to supporting families in managing digital challenges and establishing a healthy lifestyle.
