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Nowadays, it has become a common thing to put cell phones in the hands of small children. Many parents give their children cell phones to feed them, to soothe them, or just to get some time for themselves. However, a new study conducted by AIIMS has highlighted a major danger associated with this habit. Research shows that children who are exposed to cell phones and screens from an early age may have weaker learning abilities and an increased risk of developing diseases like autism.

What do experts say?

According to Dr Shefali Gulati, head of the pediatric neurology department at AIIMS: “Children who spent more time watching screens at the age of one year were found to have more symptoms of autism at the age of three years.” This effect was seen more in boys, although its symptoms were also seen in girls.

What are the reasons for this?

Experts say that the brains of young children develop rapidly during their childhood years. During this crucial time, they need what they need most – to communicate with their parents, to understand facial expressions and to connect with their surroundings. However, when a child is constantly immersed in a cell phone screen, his social and mental development begins to deteriorate. According to Dr. Shefali Gulati, it is very important for children to get complete and uninterrupted time from their parents. Children learn by seeing their parents’ faces, hearing their voices, and understanding their behavior; These mutual interactions play the most fundamental role in the development of his brain.

What is autism?

Autism is a condition in which a child’s brain does not understand social signals and language normally. Children with this condition may have trouble getting along with others, carrying on conversations, and understanding emotions. Some children may repeat the same actions over and over again; Some may seem lonely or “lost in their own world.” …And many people may have trouble with loud noises or changes in daily activities.

Which symptoms should not be ignored?

According to experts, if a child does not respond to his name being called, rolls his eyes, delays speaking or avoids playing with other children, these symptoms should not be ignored. This condition can be improved by detecting the disease at the right time and getting the right help.

Special attention to children under 18 months of age

AIIMS experts say that the habits of ‘screen time’ (screen viewing) should be gradually reduced in young children. Suddenly taking away the mobile device can make the child irritable. Most importantly, it is best to keep children under 18 months of age away from screens as much as possible. Experts believe that parental cooperation rather than mobile devices is more important for a child’s mental development; The more time a child spends in the real world and with his family, the better his mental and social development will be.