Signs that your child is spending too much time online

In today's world, children are increasingly connected to their smart devices. Using technology at such a young age can have its benefits, but excessive time spent online can negatively impact a child's development and well-being.

As The Independent reports, Ghislaine Bombusa, director of content and digital strategies at the Internet Matters organization, which deals with online safety, has discovered some warning signs that parents should pay attention to.

Lack of sleep

If your child is noticeably more tired than usual in the morning, excessive screen use in the evening may be disrupting their sleep.

“This could mean they are using devices beyond the allowed hours or need to turn them off earlier,” Bombusa points out, adding: “Lack of sleep can affect their ability to learn and participate in other activities.” Bombusa recommends that all phones in the home be charged outside of bedrooms at night and that parents talk openly with children about excessive device use.

Difficulty concentrating on other activities

Bombusa warns that spending too much time online can have a negative impact on children. “Passively browsing social media or watching short videos can make it difficult for children to focus on other activities for longer,” she explains, according to The Independent.

The expert believes that a possible solution is to set limits on the time spent on certain applications.

Avoiding hobbies and activities that do not involve spending time online

Many children use the internet to connect with friends, but if they refuse invitations to go out and prefer to stay home and move around, this could be a sign of a problem, the expert believes. An open discussion about the reasons for avoiding these activities can help you better understand their behavior.

He adds: "If it's simply over-reliance on screens, then limiting the time spent online can help. It won't be a quick change – you'll need to establish a routine and stick to it for a longer period of time before it becomes habitual."

Emotional outbursts when not using their smart devices

Another of the most common warning signs is children's violent and emotional reactions when their device is taken away or they are asked to stop using it for a certain period of time.

“This can indicate device addiction, but also other issues, like fear of missing out (FOMO) or peer bullying. If a child gets upset because they can’t use a device or when you’re trying to limit screen time, avoid arguing,” he adds.

It's important to wait for your child to calm down before having a calm conversation with them about their reaction. "Involve them in setting rules for screen time. If you're setting limits for one child, they should apply to all family members," she advises.