Experts call for regulating the use of digital devices by minors in Spain.

The recent report prepared by a committee of 50 experts appointed by the Government highlights the urgent need to regulate the use of digital devices by minors in Spain. Spanning nearly 250 pages, the document presents a comprehensive analysis of the impact that technology can have on children and adolescents, suggesting measures aimed at protecting their physical and mental health in an increasingly digital age. This initiative comes at a time when concern for the well-being of minors is more relevant than ever, especially regarding their exposure to screens and inappropriate content.

The main recommendation of the report is clear: it suggests avoiding exposure to digital devices for children under three years old and limiting their use until the age of six. In this regard, experts emphasize the importance of promoting healthy development, suggesting that physical activities and social contact are fundamental in the early stages of life. This reflects a preventive approach aimed at ensuring balanced development free from the distractions that digital technologies can bring.

Furthermore, the committee advises that adolescents between the ages of 12 and 16 should prioritize the use of analog phones, limiting access to the internet. This recommendation highlights the growing concern over the harmful effects that uncontrolled exposure to social media and age-inappropriate content can have. The inclusion of parental control tools is deemed essential if a smart device is provided, underscoring the need for parents to play an active role in managing their children's screen time.

Another crucial point in the report is the review of educational applications. It proposes the removal of those that promote instant gratification, calling into question the effectiveness of certain teaching methods that have found their place in the educational system. In fact, it is recommended that educational institutions establish clear regulations in their Digital Center Plan, prioritizing more traditional teaching methods in the early stages of learning.

The mental health of minors is also a central focus of the recommendations. Experts warn that disorders related to excessive technology use should be considered a public health issue. To address this, they suggest implementing preventive measures that tackle the negative impact technology can have on sleep and concentration, which are critical for the cognitive and emotional development of young people.

Among the multiple proposed initiatives, the creation of training plans for families is included, addressing topics such as safe navigation and the importance of setting limits on technology use. This measure aims to empower parents and caregivers to properly manage minors' interaction with the digital world, adapting their approach to the particularities of each family.

The report also highlights the responsibility of technology companies, which should include clear labeling about the risks associated with the use of their devices and applications. This labeling must be accessible and understandable, aiming to alert users to the potential dangers that minors may face when using certain platforms and digital tools.

In order to promote responsible and safe technology use, it is proposed that manufacturers and software developers configure their products to maximize the safety of underage users. This includes avoiding practices such as data tracking and targeted advertising, which can negatively influence young people and their development.

The report, which is expected to be validated by the Government in the upcoming Council of Ministers, represents a significant step towards creating a safer digital environment for minors in Spain. The recommendations, supported by scientific studies and collaboration among experts from multiple disciplines, aim to lay the groundwork for more robust legislation that protects children and adolescents in a world where technology plays a predominant role in their lives.

This comprehensive approach not only seeks to mitigate the risks associated with the use of digital devices but also promotes healthy development that considers the physical and mental well-being of minors. The proposed measures are a call to action for all involved: families, educators, companies, and the Government itself, in a joint effort to ensure a healthier and more balanced future for the upcoming generations.