Prepared by: Tabarak Ahmed Turki Al-Azzawi<br /><br />Introduction<br />In today’s digital age, screens have become an essential part of children’s daily lives, whether for education or entertainment. However, with the widespread presence of technology, concerning questions arise about the impact of digital screens on children’s brains and behavior.<br /><br />First: How Do Screens Affect a Child’s Brain?<br />1. Weakening of Focus and Attention<br />The brain becomes accustomed to rapid shifts in scenes and sounds in digital content, leading to a decline in a child’s ability to concentrate on daily tasks—especially those requiring patience and sustained attention, such as reading or doing homework.<br />2. Delay in Language and Cognitive Development<br />Children who spend long hours in front of screens, especially in early childhood, may experience delays in speech and language due to reduced real human interaction, which is fundamental for developing language and thinking skills.<br />3. Impact on Sleep<br />Prolonged screen use can lead to sleep disturbances and insomnia, which negatively affect brain development and growth.<br /><br />Second: Negative Behaviors Linked to Screen Use<br />1. Tantrums and Digital Addiction<br />A child may become irritable or angry when the device is taken away, showing signs of psychological dependency on screens, such as anxiety or discomfort when the device is unavailable.<br />2. Aggressiveness or Social Withdrawal<br />Repeated exposure to violent or inappropriate content may lead a child to become more aggressive—or, conversely, more withdrawn from their surroundings.<br />3. Reduced Physical Activity<br />Spending long hours on screens means less time for movement and real-world play, potentially leading to health problems such as obesity and poor fitness.<br />4. Emotional Numbness and Lack of Empathy<br />Direct human interaction nurtures empathy and emotional understanding, whereas digital content does not offer the same kind of emotional exchange.<br /><br />Fourth: How Can We Protect Our Children from These Risks?<br />1. Set Time Limits for Device Use<br />Establish clear boundaries for screen time to ensure a healthy balance.<br />2. Parental Involvement and Monitoring<br />It is important for parents to be involved in their children’s use of technology, to talk with them about the content they consume, and to use parental controls to block harmful content.<br />3. Teach Digital Safety Rules<br />Children should be taught not to share personal information online, not to talk to strangers through apps, and to report any suspicious or abusive behavior.<br />4. Encourage Healthy Alternatives<br />Provide alternative activities such as reading, drawing, outdoor play, or participation in sports to reduce screen dependence and promote social skills.<br />5. Be a Good Role Model<br />Children are unlikely to follow rules if they don’t see their parents following them. Reducing parental screen use in front of children sends a strong message.<br /><br />Conclusion<br />It has become evident that uncontrolled screen use negatively affects children’s psychological health and daily behavior. However, the solution does not lie in complete prohibition, but in smart and balanced guidance. The more we engage with our children, share their digital experiences, and provide them with an environment rich in love and real interaction, the better we can protect them from negative effects and help them develop awareness and the ability to make sound judgments.<br /><br />University of Al-Mustaqbal the First in Iraq