Too Much Screen Time? BP Child Specialist Dr Low’s Advice for Parents in Batu Pahat
Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat
Discover how excessive gadget use can impact your child’s speech and development. Pediatrician Dr Low from Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat shares expert advice and tips for responsible screen time.
Too Much Screen Time? How Gadgets Affect Your Child’s Development — Dr Low Shares Insights from Batu Pahat
In today’s digital world, it’s becoming increasingly common for young children to be exposed to smartphones, tablets, and other digital screens from a very early age.
At the recent Facebook Live session hosted by Pantai Hospital Batu Pahat and Klinik Ezna, our own Dr Low Han Nee, consultant pediatrician from Dr Low Child Specialist Clinic Batu Pahat, addressed a pressing concern for many parents: how does screen time affect child development?
🧠 Is there a link between gadget use and speech delay?
According to Dr Low, the answer is a firm YES. Over the past few years, studies and pediatric observations—including those during the COVID lockdowns—have shown a rise in speech delays and social developmental issues among young children. Many of these issues are correlated with excessive screen time, especially when gadgets replace human interaction.
👶 The Critical First Two Years
Dr Low strongly advises no screen time at all for children under 2 years old. This is a crucial period for brain development, bonding, and learning to communicate. Unfortunately, many children are exposed to screens during mealtimes or to keep them quiet in public places—something Dr Low frequently observes in clinics and restaurants across Batu Pahat.
💡 Why Is Excessive Screen Time a Problem?
- Limited Interaction: Children watching screens often don’t engage in two-way communication.
- Disrupted Bonding: Parents distracted by phones may miss out on key bonding moments.
- Delayed Language Skills: Screens don’t respond like people do—children miss expressive, interactive dialogue.
- Health Issues: Screen time encourages sedentary behavior, contributing to childhood obesity, OSA (obstructive sleep apnea), and other issues.
🧩 Screen Time Isn’t All Bad – If Used Right
Dr Low recognizes that gadget use can be helpful—for example, educational content for older children. But it must be balanced and supervised. Parents should:
- Set an example with responsible gadget use
- Avoid background TV or “always-on” screens at home
- Replace screen time with traditional play: running, jumping, storytelling, and outdoor games
- Ensure meaningful interaction, especially after school or during meals
👪 Parenting in the Digital Age – With Responsibility
As a pediatrician and parent, Dr Low reminds caregivers that children imitate what we do. If they constantly see us on our phones, they’ll grow up thinking it’s normal. The responsibility lies with us to manage screen use in the home wisely.
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