What Impacts Does Screen Time Have on the Developing Brain?

We live in a world where technology is getting "bigger and better" every year. New phones, tablets, gaming systems, social media platforms, and AI tools are constantly being introduced into our lives. Technology has created incredible opportunities to learn, connect, and solve problems, but it has also sparked important conversations about how much screen time is too much, and what those hours in front of a screen may be doing to our brains. 

As researchers continue to study the long-term effects of technology, we're learning that screen time isn't just about how long we spend on our devices, but also about what we are exposing our brains to. 

So, What Is Screen Time? 

Screen time is the amount of time we spend using electronic devices such as phones, tablets, computers, televisions, and gaming systems. However, not all screen time is created equal! 

Think about the difference between: 

● Watching an educational science video versus endlessly scrolling social media.

● Completing an online puzzle versus playing violent video games. 

● Video chatting with grandparents versus passively watching short-form videos for hours. 

The content we consume matters just as much as the amount of time we spend on screens. Every experience is shaping how our brains process information, emotions, and relationships. 

What Does the Research Tell Us? 

Research continues to evolve, but consistent themes have emerged. 

One recent review found that excessive screen time is associated with poorer executive functioning, lower academic performance, and fewer high-quality interactions between children and their caregivers. Executive functioning includes skills like planning, problem-solving, emotional regulation, attention, and impulse control, all of which are vital for healthy development. When these skills are impacted, children may struggle to manage emotions and experience increased frustration or aggression. 

Another study published by the American Psychological Association found a two-way relationship between screen use and children's mental health. Children experiencing social-emotional difficulties may turn to screens as a coping strategy, but greater screen use can also contribute to worsening emotional and behavioral concerns over time.

The amount of screen time children are getting is also significant. According to the American Academy of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry, children ages 8-18 in the United States spend approximately 7.5 hours daily using entertainment media. 

Current recommendations include: 

● 18-24 months: Limit screen time to educational programming viewed with a caregiver.

● Ages 2-5: About one hour of non-educational screen time on weekdays and up to three hours on weekends. 

● Ages 6 and older: Encourage healthy habits and place reasonable limits on recreational screen use while prioritizing sleep, physical activity, school, family time, and face-to-face interactions. 

Instead of aiming for perfection, these recommendations encourage families to create balanced routines where technology supports development instead of replacing meaningful experiences. 

Why Does This Matter? 

Technology is still relatively new when we consider human development across generations. While we have learned a great deal, researchers are still discovering what the long-term effects of heavy screen use may look like throughout adulthood and aging. 

Understanding this research now gives us the opportunity to build healthier habits before patterns become more difficult to change. Our children are the future, and creating environments where they can thrive is one of the greatest investments we can make! 

At the same time, these conversations are not only for children. Teens and adults experience many of these same challenges. Excessive screen time can impact attention, emotional regulation, relationships, sleep, and overall well-being across every stage of life. 

What Can We Do Instead? 

Our brains thrive on novelty, movement, creativity, and meaningful experiences. Unlike passive scrolling, activities that challenge us encourage the brain to build and strengthen neural connections, a process known as neuroplasticity. 

Consider adding more brain-healthy activities into your routine, such as: 

● Spending time outdoors. 

● Getting regular physical exercise. 

● Painting, drawing, or exploring other creative hobbies. 

● Reading, even if it's only a few pages each day. 

● Learning a new skill or topic that interests you.

● Completing puzzles, crosswords, Sudoku, or word searches. 

● Visiting local parks, museums, libraries, or community events. 

● Playing board games with family or friends. 

When we scroll endlessly, our brains often remain in a passive state, consuming information rather than actively engaging with it. Challenging ourselves with new experiences helps stimulate learning, creativity, memory, and cognitive growth. 

How Can I Help Reduce My Child's Screen Time? 

Remember, reducing screen time doesn't have to involve strict punishments or constant conflict. Small, consistent changes often make the biggest difference. 

Here are a few tricks that can help: 

● Model healthy technology habits yourself. 

● Keep phones and tablets away during meals to encourage conversation.

● Create family expectations around respectful technology use and digital etiquette. 

● Use parental controls and privacy settings to create a safer online environment. 

● Stay curious about the games, apps, and social media your child enjoys. 

● Create a space where your child feels comfortable talking about what they see online without fear of blame or punishment. 

The goal isn't to eliminate technology, but rather to teach children how to use it intentionally and safely. 

Final Thoughts 

Technology isn't the enemy. It has transformed education, communication, healthcare, and countless other areas of our lives. The goal is not to fear screens but to understand how they impact our brains and create healthy boundaries that support long-term well-being. 

If you or your child are struggling with screen time, emotional regulation, or finding balance, you don't have to navigate it alone. 

At Being Human Group, our clinicians provide a supportive, judgment-free space where children, teens, and adults can explore these challenges together. Through therapy, play-based interventions, skill building, and meaningful connection, we help nourish developing brains and support growth at a pace that feels right for you! 

Every brain deserves opportunities to rest, learn, connect, and grow, and we're here to help you.