Screen overuse threatens healthy growth in preschool children

By Poojathmi Rivithma

Colombo, June 20 (Daily Mirror) - Health authorities in Sri Lanka are raising concerns over the growing impact of excessive digital screen use on the mental and emotional development of preschool children, the Health Promotion Bureau said.

Senior Professor in Paediatrics, Professor Pujitha Wickramasinghe, highlighted that excessive screen use can lead to delayed speech, sleep disturbances, attention problems and even aggressive behaviour.

He noted that too much screen time reduces opportunities for social bonding, physical activity, and language development.

Professor Wickramasinghe urged parents to set firm limits on screen time, advising that children under 2 years should avoid screens entirely.

He also said that preschool children should get at least 13 hours of sleep each day and engage in a minimum of 3 hours of active play to support healthy development.