An issue childcare workers are constantly confronted with is increased screen time, an attractive distraction that engenders consequences such anxiety, depression, and behavioural changes, remarks neurology specialist Dr. Braus.
Until 23 May, a series of events will allow the general public to have an opportunity to experience what a day at work looks like for the many thousands in Luxembourg who either work in, or attend, nurseries, child daycare centres, and shelters.
The events form part of an initiative set up by the Luxembourgish Government dedicated to providing parents an overview of the importance of non-formal education; namely, Children's Week and the Children's Festival.
Non-formal education is the term given to structured learning that takes place outside of the classroom, and different to informal education, which is learning that takes place organically, for example, in the home.
At the events outlined above, a common question that early years educators often hear from parents is: how can we move children away from screens and engage them in real-world, hands-on activities?
On the subject, the German specialist for neurology, psychiatry and psychotherapy at the Lënster Lycée held a panel entitled "Children's brains and media."
During an interview with RTL, Dr. Braus raised awareness to the dangers that come with high consumption of digital media. He continues to state that media consumption affects children "In many areas – motor skills, sleep, behaviour, impulsivity, aggression, vulnerability, anxiety, depression, addiction, eye strain, and more."
Children aged 8-14 should not spend more than two hours per day in front of a screen, reinforces Dr. Braus.
"All media is included," he states. "Television, gaming, mobile phones, the internet – [exposure] is largely uncritical during that time window. Anything beyond that affects well-being – and also increases vulnerability to the issues just mentioned; namely, mental illnesses."
Dr. Braus intends to delve into the topic in more detail on Friday evening at Lënster Lycée, at an event marking the commencement of the Children's Week. The event starts at 7pm. For further information, consult the website wheelsup.lu.
For further information on events and activities during Children's Week, including the Children's Festival, you can visit their official website available here.
