Electronic devices have become a central feature of children's daily lives, encompassing both education and entertainment, but experts in Kuwait have raised concerns about the health and developmental consequences of excessive screen time. Medical specialists and academics have highlighted a range of physical, visual, and psychological effects linked to prolonged device use, urging parents to adopt balanced digital habits and promote outdoor activities.

At Jaber Al-Ahmad Hospital, Ophthalmology Consultant and Retina Unit Head Dr. Yousef Al-Dhafiri emphasized that extended screen exposure significantly reduces blinking rates, leading to symptoms such as dry eyes, blurred vision, and visual fatigue. Research also associates excessive screen time combined with limited outdoor play with a rising prevalence of early myopia. In addition, the blue light emitted by screens disrupts the secretion of melatonin, a hormone critical for regulating sleep, thereby contributing to sleep disorders among children. Dr. Al-Dhafiri advised parents to be alert to warning signs including children holding devices too close, frequent eye rubbing, post-use headaches, sensitivity to light, squinting, and difficulty concentrating. To help mitigate visual strain, he recommended the 20-20-20 rule—encouraging children to look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds after every 20 minutes of screen use. He also suggested that children under two avoid screens entirely, while those aged two to five should be limited to no more than one hour daily, with older children taking structured breaks, using devices in well-lit environments, maintaining appropriate distances, and ceasing screen use at least two hours before bedtime. Outdoor play remains essential for healthy vision and overall development.

Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Consultant Dr. Saleh Al-Saifi of Al-Razi Hospital highlighted the musculoskeletal risks posed by prolonged sedentary behavior associated with screens. He noted that children aged eight to ten are increasingly reporting neck and back pain, conditions linked to excessive bending toward screens and static postures. Such strains can contribute to early degenerative changes in the spine. Dr. Al-Saifi also pointed out that screen addiction reduces exposure to sunlight, which can cause vitamin D deficiency—affecting bone strength and increasing fracture risk. He stressed the importance of regular physical activity and sports in building muscle, enhancing bone health, and supporting normal growth.

Beyond physical health, experts warn of psychological and social repercussions. Former Dean of Social Sciences at Kuwait University, Dr. Humoud Al-Qashan, referenced a recent Saudi study linking high screen use to increased obesity and sleep disturbances across Gulf countries. He described how children often use screens as an emotional refuge from boredom or negative emotions, thereby detaching from reality and decreasing patience and attention spans. Dr. Al-Qashan recommended establishing “device-free zones” during family meals and within bedrooms and encouraged family engagement in traditional social activities such as Diwaniyas, family visits, conversations, and physical games to foster stronger bonds and reduce reliance on screens.

Psychology Faculty Member Dr. Saud Al-Ghanim added that excessive screen usage may serve as a maladaptive coping mechanism for children facing emotions like frustration or familial conflicts. He explained that virtual environments provide controlled settings offering immediate gratification and emotional comfort, which may hinder the development of essential emotional regulation skills. Dr. Al-Ghanim further highlighted research connecting repeated exposure to violent digital content with heightened aggression and anxiety in children. This process involves children imitating observed violent behaviors and experiencing emotional desensitization, which normalizes aggression. Violent games also elevate stress hormone levels, contributing to increased anxiety and heightened responsiveness to everyday stressors. He recommended that parents distinguish between physical tiredness and psychological withdrawal and consider implementing regular “digital detox” periods to identify behavioral issues early and seek professional intervention when necessary.

Taken together, these expert viewpoints underscore a multifaceted impact of screen overuse on children’s health, emphasizing the need for balanced digital engagement, adequate physical exercise, and family-centered social interactions to support healthy childhood development.