Unplugging growth: How summer camps can combat excessive screen time among children

Sowmya Raju | NT

Bengaluru: I n today's digital age, the pervasive influence of screens on children's lives has raised significant concerns among experts and parents alike.

With increasing research pointing to the adverse effects of excessive screen time on children's physical, mental, and emotional well-being, the quest for effective strategies to counter this trend has never been more urgent.

In today's digital age, excessive screen time among children has become a growing concern.

Dr. Roopesh BN, a child psychologist at NIMHANS, emphasises the negative repercussions of prolonged screen exposure on children's well-being.

Research shows that excessive screen time can lead to sleep disturbances, and attention deficits, and hinder social and emotional development.

It disrupts sleep patterns, affects focus, impairs social skills, and contributes to emotional and behavioural issues.

Dr. Roopesh advocates for a balanced approach, urging parents to be mindful of screen time and fostering a healthier environment for children's overall development.

Summer camps emerge as a promising solution to reduce screen time and engage children in meaningful activities.

Dr. Roopesh suggests that selecting a camp based on the child's interests and covering multiple aspects is crucial.

“For children who have spent their academic year solely on studies without pursuing hobbies, summer camps offering outdoor activities can be an excellent choice,” he said.

Timing also plays a pivotal role in the effectiveness of summer camps. Dr Roopesh advises against camps that mirror school routines throughout the day. Instead, he recommends morning activities to allow children to maintain their school-time routines, followed by free time for reading, hobbies, and creative pursuits.

Dr Roopesh advises, “While eliminating screen time is not advisable, controlled and monitored screen time for a limited period can be beneficial. Parents should not only track the duration but also monitor the content their children consume online.”

Sneha S, the founder of the Unalome Project and the creative force behind Rang Tarang Summer Camp, offers an insightful perspective. She believes in embracing technology while empowering children with skills and experiences that go beyond the screen.

Rang Tarang encourages open conversations about mindful digital use and online safety. It is not a techfree zone but a space where children cultivate the inner resources to thrive in a tech-driven world.

Saher Ali, a Holistic Psychologist, points out that adults' digital addiction sets a precedent for children.

She suggests that people often turn to their phones to fill voids in their lives, and once these voids are addressed, screen time naturally decreases.

Redirecting children's focus from screens to activities like art journaling, clay modelling, painting, and other creative endeavours can help manage stress, enhance creativity, and boost self-esteem.

These activities not only reduce screen time but also alleviate boredom and prevent the development of voids that lead to excessive digital dependence.

In conclusion, summer camps present an excellent opportunity to reduce screen time among children during the summer vacation.

By choosing camps tailored to children's interests, maintaining a balanced routine, and promoting creative and physical activities, parents can create a healthier and more engaging environment for their children.

While technology is an integral part of our lives, fostering a mindful approach to digital use and encouraging diverse experiences can help children develop the skills and resilience needed to thrive in today's tech-centric world.