Scientists strongly advise that toddlers should not watch TV and or look at tablets

Two boys watching an ipad videoTwo boys watching an ipad video.Photo: Jan Haas / NTB scanpix

Children of all ages are using tablets more than ever, which can affect both sleep and learning. U.S. researchers believe children under eighteen months old should be kept completely away from screens.

Children of all ages are using tablets more than ever, which can affect both sleep and learning. U.S. researchers believe children under eighteen months old should be kept completely away from screens.

Researchers from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated in a recent report that the use of digital media has increased in recent years. Research suggests that while the new media has its advantages, it also poses a health risk.

Therefore, the scientists have set up a detailed list of recommendations for parents, paediatricians, and others, about children’s use of digital media, reported Norsk Helseinformatikk on their website.

The list is long, but one clear piece of advice is that children under 18 months old should not look at the screens at all. The slightly older children should not exceed one hour screen-time per day.

Regardless of age, screens should not be used at home at the dinner table, and all screens should be put away at least one hour before bedtime. Tablets, computers and phones in the bedroom after bedtime are not advisable.

According to research, the medias’ use can lead to negative health effects on sleep, attention and learning, which in turn can lead to higher rates of obesity and depression.

The medias’ use increases the risk that children may be exposed to inaccurate, inappropriate or unsafe content, and unsafe contacts.

 

Source: NTB scanpix / Norway Today