More and more parents are concerned that electronic devices, video games and social networks have invaded their children's lives. Dr. Adriana Edobor Andries, a specialist in pediatric psychiatry, explains in detail, in one of the Digital Clinics podcasts, how we can protect children from screen addiction. Find out in this material about a golden rule - the 3-6-9-12 rule - which details what little ones should be allowed and with what limits.
"We cannot completely prohibit children from these devices, because we as parents use them too. We must bear in mind that little ones learn through imitation and then we can also set an example for them. It also depends on us, the parents, how much we use the devices. One thing is when we are working, another is when we are with our phone in our hands all day, which is very addictive. The child will see and ask for a phone, to do the same thing”, says Dr. Edobor Andries, who also provides online consultations on the Digital Clinics platform, in the podcast.
No screens before 3 years old
There is a set of rules made by a French researcher, who tried to make a guideline with gradual exposure, use of gadgets and the Internet. Dr. Andries explains: “It is called the 3-6-9-12 rule. What does this mean? Before 3 years old, no screens – which also aligns with what the World Health Organization supports – because it does not bring any benefit to children up to this age.
Then, after the age of 3, we can allow them, because technology is part of our lives, but with limits. No video games until the age of 6, very important, because video games can hinder psycho-motor development. Parents should encourage children up to 6 years old to play freely, with other children and develop their imagination.
Then, until the age of 9, no access to the Internet, and later with supervision, because we have to be careful about what materials children access. They can come across good things, from which to learn, but also very toxic, harmful things.
As for social networks, they are not recommended until the age of 12. WHY? Because children are not ready at this age to distinguish between good and evil and can be exposed to many dangers, and in the end become addicted. The frontal cortex is not well developed and they will not be able to stop. We, the adults, must be the ones to set their limits. We can't expect them to set a limit – we don't expect them to give us the phone and that child to say 'enough, I've been here for an hour, that's enough'. That will never happen," the pediatric psychiatry specialist explained.
You can find more information on this topic, as well as other prevention tips from doctors and psychologists, in a special section of our platform, dedicated to Digital Clinics Podcasts, here. If you are concerned about your child's behavior and need the support of Dr. Adriana Edobor Andries, a pediatric psychiatry specialist, you should know that an online consultation offers you the right setting and the private space you need.