With the passage of time, modern technology has become deeply intertwined with our daily lives. Among these innovations, the smartphone is the most widely used and easily accessible device. While it has undoubtedly made communication, information-sharing, education and entertainment more convenient, its excessive and uncontrolled use is having alarming effects on physical and mental health, particularly among children.
It is increasingly common to see smartphones being handed to babies while they are being fed, put to sleep, or simply to calm them down. Such practices may offer temporary relief to caregivers, but they expose children to screens at a very early age, often leading to dependency and behavioural addiction. As a result, many children grow overly reliant on mobile phones for comfort, stimulation and emotional regulation, which can hinder the development of healthy coping mechanisms.
Instead of playing outdoors, reading books, or socialising with friends, children are now spending long hours staring at screens. This sedentary habit hampers physical growth, reduces physical activity, and weakens social and emotional development. Prolonged screen exposure can negatively affect language acquisition, attention span, sleep patterns, and creativity. Gradually, children may become withdrawn, impatient, easily bored, and reluctant to engage in real-world interactions or imaginative play.
It is therefore crucial for parents and guardians to be more mindful and proactive regarding children's smartphone use. Setting clear time limits, encouraging outdoor games, fostering reading habits and promoting creative activities can help ensure balanced development. Technology is an inevitable part of modern life, but its use must be guided with responsibility and awareness.
Through the combined efforts of families, educators and society, responsible technology use can be ensured, restoring to children a healthy, joyful, and balanced childhood.
Sheikh Sultana Meem
Student, Department of English
Eden Mohila College
sheikhsultanameem@gmail.com
