Despite common warnings that screen time and social media are bad for children, with potential parent concerns, such as screen addictiveness, sleep deprivation, exacerbation of eating disorders, and harm to mental health.

A new report from the Child Mind Institute, NY. US which shows clear links between technology use and exacerbation of mealth problems, also shows that screen time has benefits.

Some online time improves the child 's or teen's connectedness and confidence. The data show sort of "a Goldilocks effect," . "There's a 'just right' dose." An hour a day can be beneficial, but several hours a day can become problematic, exacerbating sleep and mental health problems.

Although, some little humans, though, may have a lower threshold for problematic or addiction to gaming and social media use.

For instance, LHs with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and learning disorders are twice as likely to experience cyberbullying.

And patients with anxiety, Autism or ADHD are more likely to overuse social media and experience mood variation.

Let’s be honest, screens, the internet, social media are not going any where, they are here to stay.

Nowadays little humans cannot do their assignments without the internet, you cannot even find the answers in conventional textbooks!

Job interviews now include questions like “Which influential people do you follow on Twitter”!!

There's a misconception that parents are gatekeepers of technology, But navigating online is an essential skill for teens to go out into the world today.

So the best we can do as parents and Custodians is  not just to limit their screen time, but also to work with them closely so that they develop the skills to use social media and technology in a safe way that enriches their lives.

In love & health,

Dr. Mims