Most Children in Cyprus Spend More Than Recommended Time on Screens

The Children First Child Health Observatory has published a study revealing that the majority of 6-7-year-old children in Cyprus spend more time in front of screens than specialists recommend.

According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines, children aged 5 to 13 should limit screen use to two hours per day.

However, the study results showed that children spend an average of 1.5 hours daily watching films, TV shows, and entertainment programs on both weekdays and weekends. In addition, they spend approximately 45 minutes on video games during weekdays and up to 1.5 hours on weekends.

Experts warn that prolonged and uncontrolled screen use can lead to digital addiction and negatively affect children's mental and physical health.

Data from the European Family Study, which included Cypriot children, showed that more than two hours a day on the internet and multimedia can reduce psychological well-being, self-esteem, and worsen family relationships. Furthermore, a sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of overweight and obesity.

The Observatory was established in 2022 and is coordinated by the Cyprus University of Technology in collaboration with the University of Cyprus. The project monitors health and environmental indicators of children in 22 schools across the island.

Specialists also emphasize that parental behavior strongly influences children's habits. If adults themselves spend a lot of time with gadgets, children are more likely to copy this behavioral model.