New Delhi : Does your child also remain glued to the mobile or TV screen all day long? If yes, then this news is very important for you. The increasing trend of digital devices has taken away their natural play from children. On the occasion of ‘International Sports Day’ on Thursday, Professor Bhavneet Bharti, Department of Pediatrics, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) has cautioned parents. He clarified that for the overall development and secure future of children, outdoor sports and not mobile screens are most important. Pro. Bharti told that playing is the real work of children. Through play they learn to communicate, solve problems and control their emotions. Excessive screen time can lead to delayed language development, lack of concentration, sleep problems, and other problems in young children.

According to a recent study in the ‘Indian Journal of Pediatrics (2026)’, 68 percent of children are exposed to screens before the age of 18 months. Nearly a third of children spend more than an hour on screens every day. This hinders their physical skills and social development. In contrast, children who watched screens less than an hour a day had significantly better communication skills. Pro. Bharti has advised to keep children away from screens in the initial years. Encourage them to play outside and tell stories. Referring to the theme of this year’s Sports Day, ‘Save Sports, Save Childhood’, he has appealed to the society and schools to create a safe playing environment for children.