Impact of excessive TV watching on children

YOUNG kids nowadays are suffering from eyesight problem than ever before as they spend an too much time in front of the TV screen. A few days ago, I went to see an eye specialist where I saw a seven years old boy having problems with his eye sight. Quoting the doctor, his mother told me that all this happened due to excessive TV watching and playing video games. The doctor advised the boy to cut down TV viewing time drastically. Unfortunately, I know of quite a few mothers who keep their children busy with television so that they can either complete their domestic jobs or rest for a while. Scientists have found that we blink less as we watch television or play video games which create extra pressure for our eyes. The parents should also spend lesser time in front of television and divert their child's mind to sporting activities whenever possible. In this way the children would develop greater interest for outdoor games. And who knows one of these children may turn out to be a star player in future. Even if they do not, they would at least develop a sound health and have a better quality of life. This does not mean that they should not be allowed to watch television at all, but they should do so for a limited period instead of staying glued to TV sets for long hours. They should be made to understand that instead of wasting time in front of television exclusively they can utilise part of their leisure time playing games and sports which would be more rewarding for them. When I met the doctor along with my child, he told me the same thing.

Mohammed Sohel Hara

Bonosree, Dhaka

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