Introduction

Generation Alpha was born into a world of gadgets and social media. They actively engage in online communication on Instagram, showcase their creativity on TikTok, and upload their videos on YouTube. With over 2.5 million members of Generation Alpha born daily, it’s estimated that by 2025, there will be 2 billion of them. Technology is often used as a pacifier, for entertainment and educational purposes, turning this generation into participants in an unintentional experiment. The oversaturation of screen time that Generation Alpha experiences during their formative years has earned them the nickname "Screenagers."

Effects of Prolonged Screen Time

Physical: Prolonged screen time can strain developing eyes, contribute to poor posture, and increase the risk of musculoskeletal issues. The sedentary behavior linked with screen usage is also associated with an increased risk of physical health problems such as obesity.

Psychological: The fast-paced nature of digital content may make it difficult for children to focus on tasks for extended periods, potentially leading to shorter attention spans. Screen time, especially before bedtime, also disturbs sleep patterns by interfering with melatonin production due to blue light exposure.

Cognitive: Excessive screen time can delay development by limiting opportunities for language growth and critical thinking, which often emerge from physical and creative activities.

Emotional: Overstimulation from screens can lead to increased irritability and frustration, making it harder for children to manage their emotions. The lack of real-world interaction may also impair their ability to develop empathy and understand others' emotions.

Social: Excessive screen time can impair social skills by reducing face-to-face communication, which is essential for learning social cues and emotional intelligence. It may also lead to social isolation as digital engagement replaces physical play and bonding with peers and family.

These effects are interconnected and can reinforce each other.

What Can We Do as Parents?

In today’s world, parenting should be proactive rather than reactive. Children learn not just from our words but from our actions.

1. Be mindful of your language (as suggested by Gordon Neufeld):

Do you use threats to control behavior?

Do you ask your child's permission for decisions that should be yours? (e.g., “Is it okay if we go…?”)

Do you add “okay” to the end of sentences, making it seem like you’re asking for permission? (e.g., “I’m just going to talk to my friend, okay?”)

Do you make statements you can’t enforce? (e.g., “You have to be asleep by 9 PM.” While you can create the right conditions for sleep, you can’t force a child to sleep.)

2. Set screen time limits for you and your child—decide when and how much screen time is allowed.

3. Offer fun alternatives such as outdoor games, art, board games, and reading. These activities spark creativity and help children develop new skills. As children are natural learners, allow them to explore these offline experiences.

4. Be the role model your child needs. When used wisely, gadgets can be great tools. As Christian Louis Lange said, "Technology is a useful servant but a dangerous master."

Conclusion

Many studies on technology and social media among children converge on the idea that eliminating digital devices is almost impossible. However, the happiest children are those who spend limited time on devices, not those who are denied access altogether. The reason is that technology is an integral part of Generation Alpha’s world, and resisting it could hinder their digital literacy. Striking a balance allows children to benefit from digital learning while developing essential offline skills.