Sweden recently issued recommendations advising against exposing children under the age of 2 to digital screens, including television. The guidelines suggest that toddlers should have no screen time, while children aged 2 to 5 are limited to one hour a day, and those aged 6 to 12 should not exceed two hours. Teenagers are advised to have no more than three hours of screen time daily.
Research has shown that high digital device usage among children can lead to negative effects such as poor sleep, depression, and limited physical activity. Similar recommendations have been made by countries like the United States, Ireland, Canada, Australia, and France.
France has the strictest guidelines, stating that children under 3 should have no screen time. In contrast, Ireland and the U.S. allow babies and toddlers to engage in video calls with family and friends, while Canada, Australia, and Sweden do not make such distinctions.
Cellphone bans are already in place in many U.S. schools, with measures like cellphone pouches and lockers being implemented. However, enforcement of these bans can be challenging, and students often find ways to circumvent the rules.
Experts argue that bans alone are not sufficient and advocate for alternative forms of stimulation, such as outdoor activities and extracurricular pursuits. They emphasize the importance of providing students with safe spaces to discuss sensitive topics without fear of online backlash.
Concerns about the impact of digital technology on education and mental health have prompted calls for stricter regulations. A UNESCO report highlighted the negative effects of excessive screen time on socialization, real-life learning, and mental well-being.
Recent studies have also suggested a link between screen time for young children and developmental delays. Policymakers and children's advocates are increasingly alarmed by the influence of social media on teenagers, with lawsuits filed against tech giants like Meta Platforms Inc. for allegedly contributing to youth mental health issues.
Sweden's public health agency has urged tech companies to modify their algorithms to prevent children from excessive screen time and exposure to harmful content.
