They are born with new technologies. Their first photo was taken with a cell phone, for example, and to entertain themselves for a while, especially in public places, they and their parents already know that a tablet will be their new ally for watching cartoons or playing games. In fact, the TV is still a prized commodity at mealtimes or when drinking milk.

But to what extent is this correct?

According to experts, the more children are exposed to video games, TV, smartphones, and all their derivatives, the more likely the rates of myopia, attention deficit disorder, sedentary lifestyles (along with obesity), and childhood depression will become.

“The TV in the bedroom is one of the biggest dangers. The child only wants to sleep with the TV on and even wants to eat dinner in their bedroom. Little by little, the individual becomes isolated and spends less time with the family,” explains child psychologist Pablo González.

And she adds: “The ideal is to set schedules, whether for cell phone use, computer use, playing games, or watching TV. It’s essential to keep track and also encourage outdoor activities, or to discourage the habit of plugging everything in. For example, show them that playing a board game as a family is also fun.”

The truth is that while we can’t isolate children from the technological age, the primary individuals responsible for whether they use technology excessively are their parents or guardians.

Children need attention, play, limits, and activities to connect with others, whether they are children their own age or adults willing to read to them or play with them.

It is a society that welcomes various technological advances, but is also alert.

Protective measures

For example, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) launched a new online portal with resources for governments, industry, law enforcement, and educators to better protect children online from falling victim to crimes such as sexual exploitation.

The joint initiative with the Online Institute for Family Safety contains country-by-country data resulting from research by authorities and academic groups, legislators, and national agencies involved in child abuse.

Statistics

According to a study conducted in Latin America by the Cartoon Network television channel, children ages 6 to 11 spend an average of two hours of internet browsing per day, three to four days a week. It was also learned that, in recent years, internet-enabled devices (laptops, phones, and tablets) have replaced television as an entertainment alternative.

Also, AVG Technologies, a pioneer in security software, conducted a study that found that children between the ages of 2 and 5 are better at using computers and cell phones than riding a bike, zipping a jacket, tying their shoes, or buttoning a button.

Technology is part of modern life, and we cannot deny its benefits. It helps children learn new skills, stay connected with their friends, and explore creative activities like drawing, music, and coding. The challenge for parents is not about removing technology completely, but about finding balance.

One helpful step is creating clear routines. For example, setting a fixed time for screen use and encouraging children to spend equal or more time on outdoor play or reading. Simple family traditions, like evening walks, cooking together, or storytelling, can reduce dependency on screens and give children positive memories.

Parents can also lead by example. If adults spend hours on phones, children will copy the same behavior. Showing moderation, keeping devices away during meals, and dedicating time to conversations can build stronger family bonds.

Another important factor is safety. Parents should use parental controls, explain the risks of talking to strangers online, and guide children about what is safe to share. When children feel supported and heard, they are more likely to follow rules and ask for help if something bothers them online.