Workshop on parenting in digital era held at GITAM

Child psychiatrist Dr. Shekhar Seshadri, former Director of NIMHANS, said emotional bonding helps reduce excessive screen dependence among children. He spoke at a workshop organised by GITAM Deemed to be University on Monday.

The workshop, titled “Empowering Women: Parenting in a Digital World,” focused on the challenges parents face in a technology-driven environment. Moreover, the university’s Women Empowerment Cell organised the programme.

Dr. Seshadri urged parents to avoid relying only on strict screen-time limits. Instead, he encouraged them to offer meaningful alternatives. For instance, he suggested outdoor play, proper sleep, family time, peer interaction, focused study, and skill-building activities.

Additionally, he cited expert recommendations on screen exposure. Children below two years should avoid screens entirely. Those aged 24 to 59 months should have no more than one hour of supervised screen time daily. Meanwhile, children between seven and twelve years should limit screen use to under two hours per day.

He also emphasised respectful communication at home. Parents should acknowledge children’s emotions and explain the effects of prolonged screen attachment. Furthermore, he noted that children around three years show strong learning abilities. Therefore, he advised parents to engage them through storytelling, reading, and nature-based activities.

Dr. T. Talluri Madhuri chaired the programme. Dr. V. Nivedita and Dr. Swathi Chikkala coordinated it. Finally, the workshop concluded with an interactive discussion on building healthy digital habits.