Toddlers who use tablets risk long-term problems

Experts warn that children who use tablets or smartphones may develop long-term problems with their hands and fingers.

 

Studies indicate that this is due to the fact that tablets and smartphones prevent a child from building up muscles needed for writing.

 

Researchers found both a decrease in muscle strength and a delay in motor skill development among children who engaged with these gadgets.

 

Occupational therapist, Lindsay Marzoli, says that children who engage in excessive screen time could end up with long-term damages:

 

“If they are always on the iPad and not actually doing those paper and pencil activities that they should still be doing, those muscles are going to remain weaker.”

 

A previous study also revealed that excessive screen time can harm children's health in other ways.

 

Research conducted by the University Health Board, suggests children face a 'healthcare time bomb' of pain due to continuous use of computers, smartphones and video games.

 

It found that over 60% of primary and secondary school students reported back neck pain within the last year.

 

Physiotherapist Lorna Taylor said: “Modern lifestyles and the increase in technology are having detrimental effects on our children’s musculoskeletal health and, if not addressed in school and at home now, will have far reaching effects for our children, the future working generation and society.”