How controlled screen time shapes confident communicators

In today’s digital age, screen time has become an integral part of a child’s daily routine. However, at Apeejay Rhythms Kinderworld, Jalandhar, the emphasis is on the importance of limiting screen exposure, especially for toddlers, to ensure their holistic development. While technology plays a crucial role in learning, excessive screen time can have adverse effects on a child’s mental, physical, and social well-being.

During the pandemic, according to Ms Nidhi Ghai, the Incharge, many parents relied on digital devices to keep their children engaged while managing household responsibilities. This, unfortunately, led to an increased dependency on screens among toddlers. “Post-pandemic observations have revealed that excessive screen time has impacted children’s ability to communicate effectively. The ability to express thoughts clearly, maintain eye contact, and engage in meaningful conversations has been affected.

“Screen time should be limited as excessive screen exposure creates both mental and physical issues in children. As an educator, what I observed post-COVID-19 was that children are not speaking properly and lack proper eye contact while communicating. Discussions with parents revealed that many toddlers were given phones to keep them occupied while parents managed household tasks. As a result, children spent almost five to six hours a day on digital devices, leading to social disconnection,” Ms Ghai shared.

At the age of 2-3 years, children need to engage in conversations with people around them to enhance their vocabulary and speech fluency. When this interaction is absent, it can lead to speech delays. Around 70 per cent of children from the pandemic era faced communication challenges due to excessive screen exposure. Therefore, controlling screen time is essential. Instead, we should encourage outdoor activities that help children release energy positively and develop into well-rounded individuals.

“At Rhythms Kinderworld, we prioritise experiential learning, interactive play, and face-to-face communication to foster healthy cognitive and social development in toddlers. Our curriculum incorporates hands-on activities, storytelling, and structured playtime to ensure that children engage in real-world interactions rather than passive screen consumption. Activities such as group discussions, role-playing, music, and art-based learning help children develop strong communication skills and creative thinking,” the School Head said.

Additionally, excessive screen time can also impact a child’s physical health. Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to sedentary behaviour, affecting posture, eyesight, and motor skills. Toddlers must engage in physical activities such as outdoor play, yoga, and simple exercises to enhance their overall growth.

Parents are also encouraged to adopt screen-free routines at home, such as reading books together, engaging in creative play, and spending quality family time. “By working together, educators and parents can ensure that toddlers grow up with strong communication skills, a healthy lifestyle, and a balanced approach to technology,” Ms Ghai said in conclusion.