A grandmother has expressed concern that increased screen time may be causing her four-year-old grandson to become withdrawn and less enthusiastic. The child, who previously greeted her with hugs and talked eagerly about his day, now responds monosyllabically and no longer runs to meet her.
GP Clare Bailey, responding to the query in the Daily Mail, noted that screen use has risen during the pandemic and is linked to worsening mental health in children. She advised the grandmother to approach her son and daughter-in-law gently, asking about the child's sleep, exercise, and social interactions.
The World Health Organisation recommends no screens for children under two and a maximum of one hour per day for those aged two to five. Bailey emphasised that not all screen time is equal, with interactive video calls being less harmful than violent games.
Research shows that for two- to three-year-olds, more screen time is associated with worse behaviour and reduced brain and social development. Even educational programmes like Baby Einstein are not effective teaching tools, as children learn best through real-life interactions.
Bailey suggested practical help, such as spending extra time playing, walking, or making a list of alternative activities. She also recommended setting parental controls and time limits, and having clear rules to reduce confrontation.
