Crisis due to excessive screen use in children and adolescents is on the rise.

Concerns about excessive screen time among children and adolescents have gained new momentum in recent years, particularly following recent reports highlighting the harmful effects of this habit on the cognitive and emotional development of young people. Attention is focused not only on the amount of time minors spend in front of devices but also on the quality of the interactions generated by these screens. As parents and educators struggle to find a balance, various strategies and approaches are emerging to steer younger individuals away from screens. The report published by Vivek Murthy, the highest authority on public health in the U.S., issues a serious warning about the safety of social media for young people. This is complemented by a UNESCO study indicating that one in four nations has begun to implement regulations to restrict the use of cell phones in schools. The urgency of the situation is reinforced by alarming statistics on cyberbullying and the risks associated with internet use, which have reached levels that cannot be ignored. The testimonies from health and education specialists are compelling. Daniel Becker, a pediatrician and public health expert, describes a bleak landscape that includes cognitive disorders, learning problems, and social isolation. These effects are particularly concerning given the context in which many children and adolescents find themselves caught up in the whirlwind of social media, where the quest for approval and constant exposure to harmful content become the daily norm. Recent research has revealed that internet dependency can cause changes in the brain structure of adolescents, affecting their intellectual capacity and mental health. This reality has led many parents to reflect on the need to establish clear limits on the use of electronic devices. Psychologist Abril María Arias has observed extreme cases in her practice, where excessive screen time has led to disturbing behaviors and disruptions in sleep cycles. However, this is not just an individual problem; educational institutions also play a crucial role in this dynamic. Schools in various countries have begun to adopt policies that limit cell phone use in class, recognizing that learning is affected when students are distracted. This trend has been well-received by many parents, who feel they have already lost the battle to control device usage in their homes. Testimonials from parents who have taken steps to regulate screen time in their homes show that it is possible to reverse some of the current trends. Implementing daily limits and promoting alternative activities have proven to be effective strategies. From board games to reading, parents are seeking ways to reintroduce quality family time, distancing their children from screens. Additionally, community initiatives and educational programs are also emerging as responses to this crisis. In Brazil, the EducaMídia program aims to train teachers and students in the responsible use of technology. Such programs are essential to prepare new generations to navigate critically in an increasingly digital world. Despite these efforts, the implementation of national policies remains a challenge in many Latin American countries. While some states have taken the lead with specific regulations, others still lack a clear framework to manage device use in school environments. It is vital for both families and institutions to work together to create an environment where minors feel safe and supported. As technology continues to advance and its presence in young people's lives intensifies, it is essential to maintain an open dialogue among parents, educators, and authorities. Media education can play a central role in this conversation, providing young people with the necessary tools to understand and manage their relationship with the digital world in a healthy way. Finally, it is crucial to remember that the goal is not to eradicate the use of technology but to promote a balanced and conscious use. The path toward a childhood and adolescence less dependent on screens requires a collective commitment involving all of society, from families to educational and governmental institutions. The mental health and holistic development of our youth are at stake, and it is everyone's responsibility to ensure a future where they can grow healthily, both in the physical and digital worlds.