Screens: between addiction and control

A week after I limited my son Omar's use of devices and YouTube, I noticed a clear improvement in his focus.

A week after I limited my son Omar's use of devices and YouTube, and enrolled him in an intensive sports programme and an art programme, I noticed a clear improvement in his focus, and a shift in his interests from screens to sport, art and other activities.

More than eight months later, his school results have risen, and he has received a certificate of merit from his teacher more than once. Laziness has given way to energy, and the extra energy he used to spend in front of screens now goes into sport. His social interaction has improved, and his reactions have become noticeably calmer. He is now better able to name his interests and hobbies with confidence, and his self-confidence has grown. Best of all, he now lives his childhood as suits his age: free play, movement and real interaction, far from excessive screen time. Thank God 🤲🏽

⛔️ Uncontrolled use of electronic devices in childhood can have serious negative effects, especially for children who are more prone to digital addiction. But the danger does not come from the device itself: it comes from excessive use, unsuitable content, the absence of real alternatives, and too little family oversight.

There is no need to wait for signs of attachment to know a child is at risk; early warning signs usually appear within weeks, such as irritability when the device is taken away, losing interest in other things, disturbed sleep, and lying about how long they have used it. So prevention, and clear limits from the start, are better than waiting until the child is attached and then trying to undo it.

In short: screens are not "absolute evil", but they need limits, balance and supervision, along with real alternatives that meet the child's emotional, physical and social needs.

Rasha Tawfiq

12/10/2026