Can social media apps hinder a child’s attention span?

Some reports say it’s possible.

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TOLEDO, Ohio — Many kids these days are spending hours on addictive social media platforms — but some reports suggest that may be hindering their attention span.

“The impact of screens is certainly profound because what happens with screens is attention is taken away from face-to-face interactions and it’s given over to a device,” said Dr. Michael Manos of the Cleveland Clinic Children’s.

Dr. Manos is a pediatric psychologist. He says there is currently no concrete evidence that points towards regular scrolling having an impact on a child’s attention span long term.

In the short term, however, continuous social media use could make it harder for them to concentrate during class or complete assignments they find boring.

He says the best way for parents to help prevent that being the case for their children is to limit screen time. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, kids under four should have no more than one hour of screen time per day, while older kids should have no more than two. And if they are going to engage online, parents should be present.

“Limiting access is certainly the only way that I know of. All the conversations and lecturing of a child is not going to do a thing because the captivation of screens is far more powerful than anything a parent is going to say,” Manos added.

He says that if your child throws tantrums when you confiscate their devices, it’s worth consulting with a professional.