The harm of children watching TV is not just a long time!
Television has now become a common and essential part of daily life in most households. Whether it's adults or children, when they have some free time, they often turn on the TV and grab a remote control to watch their favorite shows or anything that catches their interest.
Children, in particular, are highly attracted to children's channels that offer a wide range of fun programs and animated content. As long as these shows are available, they can sit in front of the TV for hours, sometimes even the entire day.
Although we are aware that excessive TV watching can be harmful to children's health—especially affecting their developing eyesight—many parents find themselves allowing kids to watch TV for various reasons. Some are busy with their own tasks, while others believe that certain programs have educational value. As a result, many see TV as a harmless way for kids to pass the time.
However, in France, it is actually illegal for children under the age of three to watch television. This strict rule is based on research showing that early and prolonged exposure to TV can pose serious health risks, especially to brain development, which may lead to irreversible damage.
The Risks of Early and Prolonged TV Watching
1. Disrupted Sleep Patterns
Melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep, plays a crucial role in children's sleep quality and overall growth. Infants and young children typically need a lot of sleep. Studies show that watching TV for extended periods can suppress melatonin production. In fact, after just one week without TV, children’s melatonin levels can increase by up to 30%.
2. Impaired Brain and Nervous System Development
Unlike reading books, which stimulate critical thinking and cognitive growth, watching TV is a passive activity that limits a child's interaction with the real world and reduces imagination. Before the age of three, the brain undergoes rapid development, and regular TV watching can slow this process. The negative effects on brain growth are often irreversible.
3. Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease
A recent study from the University of Sydney found that among 290 boys aged 15, those who spent more than two hours a day watching TV or playing video games showed higher markers of heart disease risk. This highlights the long-term health consequences of excessive screen time.
4. Impatience and Social Challenges
Long-term TV watchers tend to be more impatient and anxious. Excessive screen time can hinder social skills and make it harder for children to build and maintain friendships. It limits their ability to engage in meaningful conversations and understand social cues.
How to Guide Children in Watching TV Properly
1. Choose Age-Appropriate Content
Not all TV programs are suitable for every child. Just like books, each show has a target audience. Parents should carefully select content that matches their child’s developmental stage. It’s important not to assume that all cartoons are automatically appealing. Take the time to watch the programs your child likes and evaluate them together.
2. Set Time Limits
It's essential to monitor how much time children spend watching TV. For younger kids, it's best to limit screen time. Before the age of seven, children should not watch TV for more than 30 minutes. From ages 7 to 9, no more than an hour; 10 to 12 years old, no more than 1.5 hours; and for teenagers aged 13 to 15, no more than two hours per day.
3. Maintain a Healthy Attitude While Watching TV
Eye Health Tips
Ensure the TV is placed at a proper distance and angle. A distance of 2 to 2.5 meters is ideal. Sitting too close can strain the eye muscles and increase the risk of myopia over time. Avoid watching for too long, and take breaks to rest your eyes.
Proper Sitting Posture
When watching TV, encourage good posture. Sitting slouched on the couch or hunching over the TV screen can lead to spinal issues. Encourage your child to sit upright and take short walks after watching to stay active.
After-Watching Activities
After finishing a TV session, it's beneficial to do some light physical activities before going to bed. This helps transition the body from a sedentary state to a relaxed one, promoting better sleep and overall well-being.
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