The CDC confirmed what we already know.
Need to know: New data suggests physical activity in youth aged 12–17 decreases proportionately with every additional hour of screen time.
- 71% of kids who spend <2 hours daily on devices get at least 60 minutes of recreation.
- Only 54% meet recommended activity levels when spending over four hours on screens.
Compounded interest. The dangers of digital tech on a developing mind continue to add up.
A recent study suggests children two and under with >14 hours per week of screen time have an elevated risk of autism, leading Sweden to recommend a complete prohibition for toddlers.
Citing depression and anxiety risks, Australia recently banned social media for kids under 16.
Team lift. Cause for hope, youth team sports participation jumped 11% last year, reaching the highest marks in a decade — with notable gains among girls.
Beyond preventing obesity, youth leagues support better mental health in adulthood.
Looking ahead: For public health to improve, screen time and physical activity levels need to flip. Protecting the most vulnerable may require setting limits on their behalf.
