On the occasion of International Day of Play-2026, observed globally under the theme “Protect Play, Protect Childhood,” Dr. Bhavneet Bharti, Professor of Paediatrics and Social Paediatrics at PGIMER, Chandigarh, has raised concerns about the growing intrusion of screens into children's lives. She emphasized that play is essential for healthy child development and must be protected as a fundamental right.
Play as a Foundation for Development
“Play is the work of childhood. Through play, children learn to think, communicate, imagine, solve problems, build relationships, regulate emotions and develop physically. Every child has a right to play and protecting that right is essential for building a healthy future generation,” said Bharti. She stressed that unstructured, imaginative play is critical for cognitive, social, and emotional growth.
Alarming Screen Exposure Trends
Over the past decade, children have faced an unprecedented increase in exposure to televisions, smartphones, tablets, and other digital devices. While technology has its benefits, excessive screen use is increasingly replacing outdoor activities, social interaction, family conversations, storytelling, and free play. This shift has serious implications for children's well-being.
Research Findings on Developmental Risks
Research has linked excessive screen exposure in young children with delayed language development, poor attention span, behavioral problems, sleep disturbances, obesity, reduced physical activity, and impaired social-emotional development. Bharti highlighted findings from a recent study published in the Indian Journal of Pediatrics (2026), which revealed that nearly 68% of children had been exposed to screens before the age of 18 months, and almost one-third exceeded one hour of screen time daily on weekdays. The study further demonstrated that early screen exposure was associated with significantly higher odds of developmental concerns, particularly in gross motor and personal-social domains.
Recommendations for Parents and Caregivers
To counteract these trends, parents and caregivers are encouraged to delay screen exposure during infancy, limit recreational screen time, and promote outdoor and imaginative play. Activities such as reading stories, singing songs, and spending dedicated playtime with children every day are vital for fostering healthy development. Bharti concluded, “Protecting play is protecting childhood itself.”
