Health experts in the UAE are urging parents to strictly monitor the amount of time children under five spend on digital devices. Even when the content is marketed as educational, experts warn that exceeding one hour of daily screen time can potentially hinder a child’s cognitive, linguistic, and emotional development. Dr. Saliha Afridi, chairwoman of The LightHouse Arabia, emphasizes that early childhood is a critical window for brain growth, requiring active, real-world experiences like physical play, social interaction, and sensory exploration. She argues that passive screen consumption, regardless of its quality, often replaces the vital human connections and environmental interactions necessary for a child to thrive.

While technology is now an unavoidable part of modern life, the focus is shifting from simple restriction to digital empowerment. Organizations like INJAZ UAE suggest that parents should act as role models, teaching children the psychological and technical skills needed to navigate the internet safely rather than just blocking access entirely. With the support of new parental control tools from platforms like YouTube and Google, families are encouraged to set clear boundaries and foster an environment where digital engagement is balanced with real-world learning. Ultimately, the goal is to raise a generation that can use digital tools responsibly without sacrificing the fundamental developmental experiences that shape their early years.