• Kidnections
  • Posts
  • Excessive screen time causing manic symptoms in pre-teens 📱💥

Excessive screen time causing manic symptoms in pre-teens 📱💥

Screen Time and Kids: What Parents Need to Know

June 23, 2025

A recent study from the University of California, San Francisco reveals important information about how technology affects pre-teen mental health. Researchers found that kids ages 10-11 who spend too much time on screens might experience some unexpected challenges.

What the Study Discovered

The research looked at nearly 10,000 children and found that spending lots of time on social media, video games, and texting could lead to:

  • Increased self-confidence that seems unrealistic

  • Needing less sleep

  • Being easily distracted

  • Talking quickly

  • Having racing thoughts

  • Making quick, unplanned decisions

Expert Insights

Dr. Kyle Ganson, a child development expert, explained that understanding how screens impact kids is crucial. He suggests creating healthy technology habits early can make a big difference in a child's life.

Words Of Wisdom

“There's no way to be a perfect mother and a million ways to be a good one.” - Jill Churchill

Digital Wellness Tips for Parents

  • Set clear screen time boundaries

  • Encourage offline activities

  • Talk to your kids about responsible tech use

  • Create tech-free family time

  • Model healthy technology habits

How Much Screen Time is Too Much?

Experts recommend:

  • Limit social media and gaming

  • Encourage physical activities

  • Create balanced daily routines

  • Check in with your child about their online experiences

Real-World Connection Matters

Children still love:

  • Sports

  • Creative activities

  • Reading

  • Family time

  • Outdoor play

What Parents Can Do

Pay attention to your child's:

  • Sleep patterns

  • Mood changes

  • Social interactions

  • School performance

Expert Tip: Technology isn't bad, but balance is key!

Bullet Points:

  • The University of California study indicates potential mental health risks associated with excessive screen use in pre-teens.

  • The large-scale study involved 9,243 children aged 10 to 11 across the U.S.

  • Increased time on social media, texting, and video games can lead to manic episode-like behaviors.

  • Experts highlight the need for digital boundaries and balance between tech and offline activities for better mental health.