As debate grows about the limits of social media and the possible ban on cell phone use in schools, parents and educators are called to help children develop a more balanced relationship with the digital world.
More and more parents are concerned about the negative effects of social media and excessive screen time. However, many admit to having difficulty setting rules that truly promote their children's well-being.
Several European governments, as well as health experts, have advocated for the introduction of warning labels on digital platforms, the imposition of minimum ages for social media use, and even a complete ban on cell phones in schools. The central concern is the impact that prolonged technology use can have on young people's mental and emotional health.
According to researchers, "problematic" social media use is on the rise among teenagers across Europe. A recent report by the World Health Organization (WHO) highlighted the digital world's dominance over young people as one of the main factors fueling loneliness globally.
Excessive screen use has been linked to reduced physical activity, sleep problems, anxiety, depression, stress, and social isolation.
Pediatrician Janna-Lina Kerth of Düsseldorf University Hospital in Germany warns that children can become trapped in a "vicious cycle," where the more time they spend connected to screens, the more they feel the need to continue online—a behavior that tends to worsen its negative effects.
Experts argue that it is urgent to promote healthy digital habits from an early age, with more communication at home, time for physical activity, and clear rules regarding internet use.
