Concerns about how screen time and mobile gaming affect a child’s development are often discussed in media discussions and by health professionals. A broadcast from Evening Moscow recently highlighted insights from psychotherapist Alexei Vilkov, who comments on the potential impact of extended smartphone use on young minds and bodies.
Vilkov warns that children who spend long hours immersed in mobile games may be more prone to both mental and physical health challenges. He points to symptoms such as persistent fatigue, low energy, and difficulties with vision and cognitive processing as common indicators among youngsters who overindulge in screen time. These signs, he notes, can interfere with classroom learning, social interaction, and daily routines, adding to concerns about balanced development during critical growing years.
To support healthier development, the expert emphasizes the importance of diversifying a child’s activities beyond screen time. He suggests that caregivers actively channel a child’s free time toward a variety of experiences that foster communication with the outside world and skill acquisition across different domains. The goal is to create a well-rounded lifestyle that stimulates physical, creative, and social growth alongside digital play.
Vilkov proposes engaging, hands-on alternatives to mobile games that can strengthen young minds and bodies. Activities such as dance, drawing, team or individual sports, and music can boost concentration, coordination, and mood. He also notes that crafts like modeling and embroidery offer valuable opportunities to refine fine motor skills, patience, and attention to detail while delivering a sense of accomplishment and purpose.
In practical terms, caregivers can start by observing a child’s daily routine and gradually adjusting the balance between screen-based and non-screen activities. Setting gentle limits on device usage, scheduling regular outdoor play or family activities, and providing accessible materials for creative pursuits can make a meaningful difference. The aim is not to demonize technology but to integrate it thoughtfully within a broader, enriching schedule that supports healthy development and resilience in the face of digital temptations.
Recent coverage in the media underscores the ongoing discussion about how to cultivate healthy tech habits from an early age. By pairing mindful screen time with varied, engaging activities, families can help children build robust physical health, sustained attention, and a positive attitude toward learning and personal growth. The dialogue around this topic continues to evolve as new research and practical strategies emerge from health professionals and educators alike.