A significant increase in digital screen use among preschool children has been recorded in Sri Lanka, with a recent survey finding that 64% of children spend more than 30 minutes a day using mobile phones or computers, Health Ministry Secretary Dr. Anil Jasinghe said.
Speaking at a media briefing at the Health Promotion Bureau, Dr. Jasinghe said the findings had raised concerns about screen use and other daily habits among young children.
He noted that World Health Organization (WHO) recommendations advise limiting screen time for young children to less than 30 minutes a day.
In response to the findings, the Health Ministry is preparing to introduce a health promotion programme and a set of guidelines targeting preschool children.
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 digital screen.
Meanwhile, around 80% of children were found to brush their teeth twice a day.
Dr. Jasinghe also expressed concern over parental involvement in early childhood development. The survey found that around 56% of children experience situations where their 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.
