The Malagasy Pediatric Society warns against screen use among young children. It has consequences on their development.
Dangerous for development. Many parents take their children to pediatricians because of developmental delays, according to the Malagasy Pediatric Society, in August, during the vacation period. “These children used screens very early. This slows down brain development,” doctors explain. Young children’s exposure to screens could increase language delay by three to six times. Mothers testify that their children, aged two, who stay in front of the screen almost all day, have difficulty speaking. The screen can also lead to psychological dependence, visual disturbances, a reduction in the ability to socialize and relate to others, agitation, concentration problems, delayed psychomotor development,
Restriction
The Malagasy pediatric society therefore advises against exposing a child under 3 years old to television, computers, tablets and telephones. “What a child needs at this age is interaction, attachment to parents and exploration of the world. When these two conditions are complete, his senses of taste, smell, sight, touch, hearing will be awakened. This will allow his brain to develop further,” she explains. Less screen time, then. The child should explore his environment more, interact with their parents and peers. This is not easy in this period where new technologies predominate. Screens are many parents’ option to entertain their children.
