A significant increase in digital screen use among preschool children has been recorded in Sri Lanka, with a recent survey revealing that 64% of children spend more than 30 minutes a day on mobile phones or computers, the Secretary to the Ministry of Health, Dr. Anil Jasinghe said.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Jasinghe said the findings highlighted growing concerns over screen use and other daily habits among young children.
He noted that World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations call for screen time among young children to be kept below 30 minutes a day.
The Health Ministry is also preparing to introduce a health promotion programme and a set of guidelines for preschool children in response to the findings.
According to Dr. Jasinghe, the survey also found that around 32% of children sleep for less than 10 to 11 hours a day, while approximately 43% eat their meals while using a screen.
He further said around 80% of children brush their teeth twice a day.
Dr. Jasinghe also raised concerns about parental involvement in early childhood development, saying that around 56% of children experience situations where caregivers become angry with them.
He added that only around 53% of fathers are closely involved in caring for their children, highlighting the need for greater parental engagement in children’s early development.