The Harmful Effects of Excessive Screen Time

The harmful effects of excessive screen time were highlighted, including how it impacts brain development, impairs eyesight, is implicated as a causal factor in childhood obesity and increased rates of mental illness, hinders social skills development and leads to sleep deprivation.

Ms. Jehan urged the students to consider, not only how many hours they spend in front of screens, but also for what purpose they use them for. She encouraged students to move away from being mere passive consumers of technology, and instead interact with it in order to enhance their real life face-to-face relationships (not diminish them), to create, and to build on experiences they encounter in the real world.

There is certainly a lot we need to work on as adults too, in using technology in more healthy and productive ways, and ensuring we are good role models for our children.