Gadget Screen Exposure Excessively To Children Becomes A Threat To Grow Flower

JAKARTA - In this multi-connected digital era, the use of gadgets by children, including toddlers, has become commonplace in everyday life.

However, behind the ease of access to information and entertainment, there is a serious risk to children's growth and development, especially for those under the age of two. This age period is a critical period of brain development which is greatly influenced by social interaction, environmental stimulation, and quality of care.

Pediatrician from the Indonesian Pediatrician Association (IDAI), dr. Farid Agung Rahmadi, M.S., Med., Sp.A (K), reminded that toddlers in this age range are the most vulnerable group to negative impacts from screen exposure or screen time.

In a media seminar held online in Jakarta, he explained that screen time refers to the length of time a person spends time in front of electronic devices such as televisions, computers, laptops, and smartphones.

"At an early age, the child's brain is in a very fast developmental phase because the brain's plasticity is maximal. There are many synaptogenesis processes or the formation of crucial connections between nerve cells for cognitive development," said dr. Farid, as quoted by ANTARA.

He added that excessive screen exposure can interfere with the quality and quantity of interaction between children and parents. In fact, direct interaction is very important in supporting a healthy and meaningful playing process for babies. When screen time dominates, children's play activities become shorter, and the focus of attention and complexity of their game also drastically decreases.

"As a result, children miss many opportunities to learn through social interactions and direct exploration with the environment," he explained.

In addition, he noted that the types of media used by children currently experienced significant changes compared to the previous decade. If television used to be the main source of entertainment with an average broadcast duration of about 1 hour 20 minutes per day, now private devices have replaced the position as the main medium.

For example, he cites data from Canada showing that in 2011, about 39 percent of children had been exposed to personal devices. This figure increased sharply to 80 percent in just two years. Along with that, the duration of screen exposure increased dramatically to an average of 4 hours per day from various devices.

This phenomenon shows the urgency of parents and caregivers to be more vigilant in regulating their children's screen time and providing an alternative to healthier stimulation. Direct interactions, physical play, and creative activities are much more beneficial for the development of the child's brain and social abilities than passive exposure from digital screens.